The Gift of Peace

 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you: not as the world gives do I give to you.  Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. John 14:27 (NKJV)

 

It is that time of year again—the Christmas season—encompassing thirty-two shopping days. More than five hundred billion dollars will be spent in that time. In 2011, an excess of fifty‑three billion was spent between Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

 

Unfortunately, the 2011 shopping frenzy also brought fights, stabbings, shootings and deaths—all of this in quest for Christmas gifts? Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God (Matthew 5:9).

 Peace can be defined as freedom from quarrels and disagreement. It brings public security and order, and certainly would have been welcome in 2011. Peace of mind, however, is an inward condition, independent of external circumstances. When we have God’s peace, which surpasses all understanding, it helps us to remain calm and in control, even in the midst of problems, difficulties or unpleasant situations.

 

There are other benefits of the gift of peace, such as the development of patience, tolerance and tact; the ability to not be disturbed by what people think and say; and an increase of self‑mastery and ‑discipline. An added advantage is the ability to fall asleep and stay asleep by eliminating negative, futile and restless thinking.

 

When the season is over, I will be grateful for the sweaters, books and perfume, but all I really want for Christmas is PEACE.

 

 

Father help us remember the reason for the season. Thank you for giving your Son, the gift: Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and the Prince of Peace.  Teach us how to trust and rest in Him.  Give us perfect peace. Amen

 

 

© 2012 Wanda Currie