Peace | by John & Kathy Noel
Luke 1
One of our favorite spots in the Canadian Rockies is Moraine Lake. The sun shining on the turquoise water surrounded by snow-capped mountains creates the most beautiful, peaceful scene. But after a long winter of heavy snow fall, the spring thaw gives way to massive avalanches roaring down the mountains. Even in the summer, you can hear smaller avalanches crackling through the silence, disrupting the peaceful scene.
Life sometimes is like that, isn’t it? One day all is calm and then “crack”—an avalanche comes barreling through, shattering your peace. Mary could identify. Think of the avalanche that was triggered by the angel’s visit. Personal humiliation, public shame, rejection by friends and family, and a future that was uncertain—let alone the overwhelming responsibility!
How did Mary respond? We get a glimpse of her heart in Luke 1 when she says, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior!” She continues speaking of God’s might and holiness, His mercy, strength, sovereignty, and goodness. In the midst of the avalanche, she delighted in the character of God. Psalm 34:5 confirms that “those who look to Him are radiant!”
Has your peace been threatened by an avalanche? Are you feeling afraid, worried, unsettled, confused? This Christmas, do as Mary did. Look to Him! Dwell on His character and promises! Rejoice in Him! And remember Jesus’ words: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27) “May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way” (2 Thessalonians 3:16) so that you will radiate His peace to a world that desperately needs Him.
Additional Resources
Watch A Christmas Candle devotional
Try this digital puzzle of a peaceful Christmas town
And one for kids too!
Listen to I Heard the Bells On Christmas Day
