As we enter the final week of getting ready to celebrate Jesus’s birthday are you taking time to rest and recharge in God? Or are you days packed with the business of the season?
Many people are looking ahead to 2021 in hope of a resolution to the health risks and constraints brought about by Covid-19. But, more importantly, it’s vital that our focus is on listening to God’s instructions and leadings.
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow sat at his desk Christmas Day 1863 filled with despair and anguish. He was a widower raising six children since his beloved wife had died 2 years earlier when her dress had caught on fire while cooking. His oldest child, an eighteen year old son, fighting in the Civil War had suffered a grievous shot that could have left him paralyzed. Life seemed bleak. There was certainly no peace in his heart or on earth that Christmas Day. No immediate hope for “Peace of Earth” that the church bells were ringing. Wrestling with his depression and gloom, as he listened to the bells, praying, and writing his thoughts, Henry felt God’s peace seep into his heart and soul. In triumph he wrote “
Then rang the bells more loud and deep
God is not dead, nor does he sleep (peace on earth, peace on earth)
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail
With peace on earth, good will to men.”
King David wanted to build a temple to God – God said NO! Instead, God promised that his line would sit on the throne forever. He trusted God’s plan and relinquished his.
Mary gave up her dreams of a normal married life in obedience to God. Both faced unknown, uncertain futures confident that God’s love and faithfulness is sufficient, no matter what may happen.
We too, can trust in God because of Jesus – Emmanuel, “God with us”
Scotts Mills Friends Church 