Seeking His Peace in the Busiest Season
by Cindy Dahlin, Church Administrator

In 2008, Amy Grant recorded “I Need A Silent Night” (listen here). I think Amy Grant must have been watching me navigate through Decembers. When I first listened to the lyrics I was embarrassed that I had fallen into the Christmas Crunch, but now I find it ‘almost’ humorous. The chorus goes like this . .

“I need a silent night, a holy night

To hear an angel voice through the chaos and the noise

I need a midnight clear, a little peace right here

To end this crazy day with a silent night”

Every Christmas season, I make a pledge to myself that next year, I will get this Christmas preparation down to being more efficient, less stressful, full of the Glory of the birth of Jesus, and feeling like I am totally Game On, both spiritually and in the reality for December 25th.  In my fantasy Christmas preparation, I actually write meaningful Christmas Cards weeks ahead of time; visit neighbors and friends with cookies I just baked; and read every Christmas Advent Devotional I can get my hands on.  I will meditate on those Advent Devotionals first thing in the morning and before going to sleep at night. It never happens– even if I am aware that it isn’t happening.

A few years ago, I accepted the fact that December 25th was not the culmination of all the efforts put into getting there, but beginning December 26th I can begin to feel the peace and reflect on the beauty of the season. Look at how many things we have all done up until now getting ready for Christmas Day? Take a deep, long, breath and give thanks that God has filled our lives with such a bounty of people and opportunities to fellowship.

The celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ should be in our hearts and glorified all 365 days a year. If we feel the distraction has interfered with that for Christmas Day…. Relax ! We can commune that thanks with God any time, any day, we choose.

Psalm 29:11 ~ The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.