Peace on Earth—and in Our Everyday Moments

This week we’re talking about pursuing peace during the Christmas season over at The Joyful Life blog. You can read an excerpt below, and then head to their website to see the full piece.

Every year, I have the same vision in my mind. I picture myself rising early, sitting in the glow of Christmas lights with the Bible open on my lap, and soaking in the true meaning of Christmas. In my imagination, life moves at a slower pace. My ideal Christmas season includes entire days devoted to baking and reading books about baby Jesus to my children, wide-eyed with wonder.

Somehow, I manage to forget that at Christmas time my life is still my life. Grocery shopping, laundry, and sibling quarrels all must work their way into my schedule. On top of everyday life, more tasks pile on my to-do list: planning for out-of-town guests, shopping for gifts, and juggling holiday events. My vision of a perfect, peaceful Christmas never seems to match up with reality.

Once or twice, I’ve woken up in the New Year with regret in my heart realizing I completely missed it. I missed the opportunity to let the beauty of the season turn my heart in worship toward Jesus. I let the busyness of my schedule squeeze out the intentional moments of remembering what all the celebration is really about.

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