Woven into the tapestry of the Christmas story are moments of nearly perfect peace punctuated with a chaotic flurry. Mary’s calm during Gabriel’s announcement. A pronouncement that would forever stir up her life. The stillness of the shepherd’s flock before the sudden appearance of Heaven’s angels. The labor cries of Mary punctuate the peaceful stillness of a stable. Peace amid chaos.
This interplay of peace and chaos is part of the fabric of God’s story. Even as far back as creation itself, we read of darkness, void, and formlessness being invaded with light. (Genesis 1:2) Sometimes, God brings us peace in our turmoil. Sometimes, God shakes our self-created peace (remember Job’s story) to pull us towards Him.
Jesus did promise peace and rest. Precious promises. “Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” (Matthew 11:28–30, NLT) And, “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” (John 14:27, NLT) Notice, however, that these promises are specific. Jesus doesn’t offer just peace for peace’s sake or rest for rest’s sake. No, He is offering His peace and His rest.
The promise of Christmas is peace, not peace as we may imagine it, but peace as only Christ can give us. And in His peace is rest. Not a ceasing from labor, but a lighter burden because we are yoked to Jesus. Instead of carrying all of our struggles, worries, cares, concerns, and troubles on our own, the Gospel’s invitation is to “cast all of those on Jesus” (Psalm 55:22, 1 Peter 5:7). That, in and of itself, is a source of tremendous peace.
Christ’s peace and rest are available for you right now. This doesn’t mean that all the troubles magically disappear. But it does mean that Christ’s peace invades our darkness. All it takes is the willingness to receive, just like you may receive a Christmas gift. Even something as simple as praying, “Lord, I need your peace,” with open hands and a willing heart.
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