Theme:   All I Want for Christmas is To Find REAL Hope

This eDevotional was written by a volunteer from Timberlake Church. 

READ:  John 14:6-27

THINK:  I grew up in the 60's and 70's when this word was given its popularity.  Everywhere one looked there were "peace signs"  "peace marches" "peaceful demonstrations" peace paired with love" and songs begging us to "Give peace a chance."  It was a time of a controversial war, economic  and political stress and misunderstanding of one generation toward another. Hmmmmmmmmmm not so unlike today!

Humans have the notion that peace is defined as the absence of conflict.  Yet, God tells us that we can have peace that passes all understanding in the midst of any given situation.  For true peace comes from Him.  It is a gift.  He manufactures it and gives it away.  We are in the throes of the biggest gift- giving time of the year.   Each of us has access to a great gift that is one size fits all….the gift of peace.  It is our decision to receive and believe.  Both actions need to be taken.  One can receive a gift and never open it or use it proving we do not believe it has value.  One can also say I believe yet never take the step to reach out and receive the gift from the Giver. 

I heard a few lines of a song that caught my attention.  The singer made a great statement. She sang,  "A baby changes everything."  I was thinking on the first level as the song was about a teenage girl and how her life would now change.  Then I realized it was about the Baby Jesus.  This baby truly did change everything!  Not just for his mother, but for all people for all time.  He came to bring peace.  Because God chose to send His one and only Son to be the personal Saviour for all mankind everyone of us can have peace… EVEN in the midst of illness, pain, addiction, loss, shame, guilt, brokenness...  Hear and believe the words of the angels: 

"Glory to God in the Highest, And on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests."

We have found favor with God………...may we choose to rest in His peace.

DO:  Take a minute to remind yourself of all God is capable of doing.  Acknowledge that  He is in control.  Then choose to do all within your power to be at peace with those He puts in your path.

PRAYER:  Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for being the giver of every perfect gift!  You provide all we need and hear our every prayer.  Help us to trust You in every area of life and give us the courage through the power of your Holy Spirit to do our part.  AMEN