“But, in accordance with his promise, we wait for new heavens and a new earth, where righteousness is at home. 14 Therefore, beloved, while you are waiting for these things, strive to be found by Christ at peace, without spot or blemish.” [2 Peter 3:13-14; NRSV]
“Strive to be found by Christ at peace.” Well? Are you at peace or is this season causing everything but peace to reside in your heart? The expectations that are often layered on this time of year are enormous. The scrabble to find the perfect gifts. The holiday parties to attend or even host. The extra musical concerts on the calendar. Getting ready for the big day and all that comes with family celebrations. Just writing this makes my heartbeat faster! And so, we need to take a deep breath. Breathe slowly and deeply. Breathe out slowly. “Strive to be found by Christ at peace.” What is this peace? Is it simply the absence of hostilities? Although that would be wonderful on the world stage, this peace has nothing to do with circumstances and everything to do with whom we trust with our lives. As Apostle Paul says elsewhere, “Whether I live or die, I belong to God.” We belong to God; God is the source of our peace that can surpass understanding. This season take a moment to recenter your soul on the truth that you belong to God, so that you may be a peaceful presence for others.
Prayer
Compassionate God, this season is not always so easy. The demands are plentiful and sometimes even overwhelming. Help me to recenter my soul on you, for Christ is the reason for this season. Help me to experience your peace in my life, so that I may be a peaceful presence when I am with others. Amen.
