Peace On Earth
2003 Advent Devotional Collection
Tuesday, December 16
Reading for Today: John 14:27
“I leave you peace; my peace I give you. I do not give it to you as the world does. So don’t let your hearts be troubled or afraid.”
God gives us peace, so why don’t we feel peaceful? Is it because His peace is limited or is it because we limit ourselves? In the same way that our free will often gets in the way of our receiving all of God’s many blessings, we pass up the opportunity God gives us for peace in our hearts. Our willfulness and inability to see beyond the everyday activities in our earthly world often create a diversion from this freely and lovingly given peace.
When things are going miserably at work, I often stop what I am doing and pray - an opportunity for me to plead for help and express my frustration. Although I usually feel better, I don’t always “listen” because I am too busy “talking” and trying to work out my own solution! How much fuller and easier my life would be if I would just faithfully trust in God and allow His loving peace to enter my heart. Our loving Father provides answers, hope and peace for all the circumstances in our lives, if we just faithfully accept it! This season let us all remember the awesome gift of love, peace and salvation that our Father sent to us.
Prayer for Today:
Dear holy and loving God, please open our hearts and minds to receive
the blessing of peace that you so freely give to us. Let us rejoice and
remember to spread your love and peace this wonderful season. Amen.
Julie F.
Central Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
(217) 428-4336