Tuesday December 15, 2020

Begin this new day by praying this prayer out loud. As you are able, consider kneeling as a physical expression of your commitment to Jesus as Lord of your life and the one you desire to lead you this day. Alternatively, you might consider placing a hand over your heart as you pray this prayer. 

Lord,

We come to you with great anticipation and preparation. Open our minds, open our hearts, open ourselves to what you want us to hear and experience today as we read your word. 

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give 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

Jesus is the source of true peace: salvation through him, communion with him, and his reign overall. Jesus, the Son, is sent by the Father to teach us the way to eternal life. In the fullness of time, when prophecies are fulfilled and promises become reality, a child is born. Truth comes in flesh and blood. Jesus comes to teach and he comes to show us the way to salvation by making the way. We can experience the assurance of God’s love for us when we accept that Jesus is the Prince of Peace and obey his teaching. We can’t understand love or peace without obedience. So much of our disordered and self-inflicted pain comes from searching for peace and love without guidance or boundaries or rules.

When we follow Christ and receive his grace, we learn through obedience what peace is. Peace transcends understanding and protects our hearts from fear. Peace is present because God is with us. How is it with your soul? Is peace at home in you?  

When you are finished with your time of reflection, close out this time with this prayer. 

Lord, Make advent real in our hearts. 
Never have we needed Your joy and peace more than now. 
Thank You for the gift of Jesus, our Immanuel, the Word made flesh. Lord, we need Your peace and joy. We know that peace on earth can only come when hearts find peace with You. You are still our Joy. You are still our Peace.  And we still celebrate You as Lord—this Christmas and always.