ADVENT NOVEMBER 29

EVERYTHING IN HIS TIMING INCLUDING PEACE

The worst of my fears has come true, what I’ve dreaded most has happened. My repose is shattered, my peace destroyed. No rest for me, ever—death has invaded life. Job 3:25-26 (Message)

God makes his people strong. God gives his people peace. Psalms 29:11 (Message)

The people who walk in darkness shall see a great Light—a Light that will shine on all those who live in the land of the shadow of death. In that glorious day of peace there will no longer be issuing of battle gear; no more the blood-stained uniforms of war; all such will be burned. Isaiah 9:2 & 5 (The Living Bible)

At Christmas we sing of the “silent night,” the “little Lord Jesus asleep peacefully on the hay,” “of peace on earth” and the “quiet little town of Bethlehem.” Job had fears and his peace was destroyed; death invaded his life.

We may not have had the president we wanted picked by the voters. Our family may have become broken, we may have had to move out of our home or we may have a rift with a friend or family member. We must listen to the words of “Silent Night,” “Away in a Manger,” “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day,” and “O Little Town of Bethlehem.” Let the calming words bless us giving us peace. Because the coming of the Messiah has won over death. Jesus was born according to the exact timing of God and he will appear again on the day the Lord knows with a great Light.

Prayer: Our Father who is in heaven, thank you for your promise of a room in your house for us sinners. Thank you for Jesus who overcame death and gives us hope. As we sing the Christmas hymns help us to carefully and earnestly hear them. Almighty God, your timing is perfect for us. Amen.

Sandra Hilsabeck