PEACE OR PACE
Today is the second Advent week meaning Peace. I took a hike up one of our local mountains this past week, recognizing that I needed to pace myself. As I was climbing I began to think about the fast-paced world that we live in especially during the Christmas season. We have places to go, and things to do, after all, this is the season for spending and celebrating and eating and gifting. How often we are left leaving out the most important meaning of Christmas and so you are left with a choice,
"Keep the pace or find the peace." Two words which look the same but have different meanings.
Over this past year, there's been a plaque on my mantle reminding me to reflect on knowing God.
"Be still and know that I am God." It's been almost a year that we lost our son in law tragically in an accident. I only knew him for four short years, but during this short time, he inspired each one of us with his peacefulness and his giving heart. I know that when I have given to others there's a real sense of peace that permeates my heart.
I'm not sure what you are all struggling with but we do know that we live in a very fragmented world filled with discord, confusion, loneliness, depression, anxiety, insecurity, and uncertainty. The demands of keeping the pace do not always allow us to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.
What are some practical ways that you can navigate through this hectic holiday schedule and experience peace?
- Let go of some of those unreal expectations.
- Are there some things that you could say no to?
- Are there things that you could let go of to create a more peaceful environment?
Peace is more than sitting quietly around a warm fire after the kids are tucked in bed and the gifts are all wrapped. Grab some moments of stillness to refocus on God's special gift to mankind. God offers us the kind of peace that flows from things being in harmony. When our heart, soul, mind, and strength are in alignment, we will experience inner peace. God wants to lavish peace abundantly on all of us. Are you a peacemaker or a pacemaker?
"Peace, I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27
I couldn't agree more.
ReplyDeleteAmen sister!!
Ellen, this is such a beautiful post...thank you for this truthful reminder about finding true peace, especially during the frantic Christmas rush. There is nothing i love to do more than getting out by myself in God's creation and be alone with Him to refocus. As I alluded to in my comment back to you, we had our gathering this past weekend and it almost feels like Christmas has come and gone...in a way. I can't help but feel a little relief that there are actually a couple of weeks until Christmas Day which will be pretty laid back...time that I plan on using to try to just...refocus...on the reason we are celebrating. I am sorry to hear about losing your SIL so tragically. It sounds like he left quite an impact on your family. May you have a blessed week ahead, friend.
ReplyDeleteOh Marg - such a beautiful slice of bread today! I have had "Be Still and Know ..." on my chalk board all Fall and just last week changed it to "Let it Snow". Why is it that we feel obligated to keep the pace? I need to let go of some of those things that cause stress and rob the peace (i.e. worry, self-confidence, being at peace with this season in my life, intentionally enjoying the simple things). Your profound loss, so unimaginable, keeps you in my prayers dear one!
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