Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. (John 14:27 KJV).

 The Christmas season has arrived, and it’s time to put aside my customary work and enter into the celebration with my whole heart. I must resist the temptation to regard this holiday month as an expensive distraction or interruption. An industrious life is good, but I believe God wants it balanced with the refreshment that godly festivity can bring.

He commanded the Israelites to observe several annual festivals for their good, to renew themselves, their servants, and their relationships with others. Even their farmland needed the revival of rest. Sadly, over the years, the focus on material prosperity allowed these holidays to fall into disuse. The Old Testament records how dearly His people paid for their disobedience.

In a similar way, this festive month is for my good.  I must accept it as a precious gift and put aside my other pursuits. Routine activities and distractions can wait while I celebrate the joy of Jesus’ birth and receive His promise of Christmas peace.

Prayer: Renew my heart, O Lord, as I step off the merry-go-round of my life and kneel in wonder before the Christ-child born in the poorest of circumstances, yet was–and is–King of kings and Lord of lords.  Amen.