At this time of year the pace of life seems to speed up. Holiday planning, attending events, and jostling through crowds can have us unintentionally careening through the season on overdrive until we reach the finish line. Come ye thankful people, come! Feasts! Peace! Love! Joy! Goodwill! Hark! Family! Hurry! Lights! Carols! Decorations! Pageants! Gifts! Wrappings! Clean-up! Splat! …we just crashed into January and it’s time to pack it all up and put it away until next round. Time for a long winter’s nap.
Jesus amidst the demands of His day found refuge, rest, direction and strength as He sequestered Himself with God the Father. Following His example here is a worthy goal. Drawing near to God, we celebrate the abundance of His love and provision quietly and personally as the bustle roars around us. Our sweet hour (or minute) of prayer can soothe the sting of torn relationships or renewed grief over lost loved ones through the holidays. Staying in touch with God helps us focus on the bedrock of His blessings buried beneath all the holiday fluff.
Take a few moments to rest in the comforts of Scripture:
"But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign Lord my refuge; I will tell of all Your deeds." Psalm 73:28
"The Lord is good to those whose hope is in Him, to the one who seeks Him." Lamentations 3:25
"May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels." Psalm 122:7
"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
"The God of peace be with you all." Romans 15:33
PRAYER: "…Give me neither poverty nor riches; otherwise, I may have too much and disown You and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God." (Proverbs 30:8-9) Thank You for blessing me in the abundance of Your love. Amen.