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Greetings! 
"Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold,
everything is softer and more beautiful." - Norman Vincent Peale
As we prepare to rejoice in the birth of Christ, the feeling of softness, beauty and peace is right in front of us, yet often overshadowed by all that we have come to believe must be done in time for Christmas. Maybe underneath the hurry of shopping, wrapping, decorating, baking, cards, invitations, menus, traditions and memories, there are thoughts of just wanting to get through it all. It's no wonder we may feel a certain lack of peace in our mind, stress in the body and a sense of emptiness in our soul.
Peace on earth, good will toward men. - Luke 2:14
Being at peace this time of year brings us closer to the true meaning of Christmas as suggested in Christmas hymns in praise of the birth of Jesus.
O Holy Night! The stars are brightly shining;
it is the night of the dear Savior's birth.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining.
Till He appeared and the Spirit felt its worth...
... Truly He taught us to love one another,
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Dr. Peale has a great deal to share with us about being In Search of Peace - Click Here
Embrace peace, and the Christmas spirit in these next few days will be yours. I share this with you today and pray it lives powerfully in your heart. Be intentional by including the true meaning of Christmas in every single task as you prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus! In this way, all activities take on deeper meaning, especially in the selection and giving of gifts. Remember, the gifts of the three kings were simple, few and meaningful! Show your love of the Lord through acts of kindness and pray for those who are suffering great loss.
Say to yourself: I am at peace, and all activities reflect my intention to keep the true meaning of Christmas in my heart. I rejoice in the coming of Christ!
This single focus will bring peace to you and to all those around you.
Dr. Peale emphasizes the importance of stillness and prayer as a way toward peace. In the booklet Try Prayer Power, Dr. Peale guides us through the practice of quieting the body and mind as a way of hearing the Lord's offering of peace. I love this booklet, especially for this time of year. Here is a short excerpt:
Imagine Jesus Christ as placing His hand on your head and saying to you:
My peace I give unto you... let not your heart be troubled. - John 14:27
Say those words aloud. Try using the tone you think Jesus Christ used when He said them.
Sit in a relaxed posture for two or three minutes while thinking the kindliest, most spiritual, most outgoing thoughts you can develop. Think generously, think gratefully, think peacefully.
Today, as you go about your day and the upcoming days before Christmas, commit the following verse to memory. It will keep quietness permanently vital within you and peace in your heart.
In quietness and in confidence shall be your strength... - Isaiah 30:15
If you would like to print a copy of this booklet just Click Here, or on the image of the booklet. You may also feel free to email me and I will send you a copy.
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