"Peace on earth and mercy mild,God and sinners reconciled" is my favorite line in the dear hymn, “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing". This small phrase causes me to pause almost every time I sing it.
By Christ coming to Earth, He gives us (the sinners) an opportunity to be reconciled to Him. Without Jesus coming and being born on this earth, there would be no such opportunity.
Now that is something to harken to.
Then, when I think about it more, I realize that it is once we are reconciled to God that we can experience true peace. Peace with each other and peace with ourselves.
But how can gain peace with God, ourselves, and others?
Here are five ways to focus on peace:
Meditating on Scriptures that emphasize peace, like Romans 5:1-2 “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God.”
Keep a Gratitude Journal to acknowledge the blessings in your life. This recognition can shift your perspective to promote a sense of peace.
Serving Others through Acts of Kindness is a tangible way to live out Christ-like humility. Who knows, your intentional actions of kindness may spark others to do the same.
Be Mindfully Present during functions and gatherings, not scrolling on your phone or texting others that are not present. Focus on the moment and the people that are currently surrounding you.
Seek Forgiveness from others that you have wronged, and for others that have wronged you. By accepting God's sovereign timing for justice, there becomes a space in heart that can now receive compassion and grace, a ripe recipe for healing.
“Hail the Heaven-born Prince of Peace! Hail the Sun of Righteousness! Light and life to all he brings, risen with healing in His wings” (verse 3 of "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing").
Take a moment to pause, listen, and experience the peave of our Lord this Christmas season-and beyond!
Merry Christmas!
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