Within and without

i just don’t think we could have created more chaotic circumstances- don’t you think we lack the imagination? There was nothing sweet about the announcement of Mary’s pregnancy, or the beginning of her marriage to Joseph.  She didn’t have a mom or aunt to help her deliver her first child in a well prepared room surrounded by excited relatives. It was just Mary, Joseph, a feeding trough and the home of the animals no one would ever allow into the house.  No, not a peaceful beginning at all.

Let’s go back to Mary and Joseph.  They were asked to do a hard thing. Sure, the news was delivered by angels and that’s exciting, but then they had to live out their obedience in the days and weeks of daily life. I really doubt that the people of Nazareth bought their story. Individually, they had decided to trust God. Together, as they began life together in obedience, it can’t have been easy. Or peaceful.

Then the trip to Bethlehem. Panic, because there is nowhere to stay. Pain and fear because this baby is coming, ready or not. Confusion- where did these shepherds come from? And the guys from the East? Fear and doubt again- have to go to Egypt to keep the child safe.

Still, not a peaceful life. Those beautiful words, “Let it be to me according to your will” sure didn’t seem to bring anything good to Mary’s life.

Sometimes, kids, your life will seem that way too.  You will think you were trusting and obeying, but nothing is going right for you. You will be tempted to doubt your decision, or maybe to doubt God and his love for you.

My prayer is that during those times, you will seek after God even more determinedly.  Ask the hard questions, tell him about the doubts and fears, but keep “reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life” (Phil 3:13, 4:6-7)

Father, I pray that my kids would know the peace that comes from seeking you in every part of their lives.  I pray they will bring all their worries and fears to you, that every decision will be made through the power and direction of the Holy Spirit. I pray that your peace, within and without, will guard their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Thank you, Father, for this priceless gift.  #prayersformychildren #advent 2017