A Reason for Peace
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7
Each Christmas season, as I prepare our home in anticipation of Christmas, I look forward to setting out several different representations of the nativity. My heart is warmed as I reflect on how God used an infant to bring hope and redemption. One of the many reasons I enjoy working with children is because they are like presents full of potential, and we are blessed to see how God has uniquely designed each one with special gifts for us. As I lay the Christ child on the manger in front of Joseph and Mary, I often wonder what that night would have been like for them. What questions would they have had? Could they have imagined or considered that this baby’s gift to us would be peace?
For many, commercialization and expectations surrounding Christmas bring additional pressures and stress that threaten to overshadow the reason we celebrate. It is too easy to let our focus be blinded from the good news. Jesus, came as a baby, to provide a way for restoration with God! He is the Prince of Peace. Because of God’s gift of Jesus, we can experience peace that comes from the powerful love of God that is not dependent on our own strength or the circumstances around us. We have hope for the present and the future.
This was a rough week for our family. Like many CCA families, illness hit our home. Deadlines were missed, preparations delayed, and my advent calendar is fast approaching Christmas Day. Yet, in the midst of it all, I heard a gentle reminder. Be anxious for nothing. As I gaze on the Christ child in the glow of Christmas lights, I am reminded we have a Savior and a reason for peace.
May your Christmas break be filled with special family moments, restoration, and peace! We are blessed to partner with each of you, and each one of your children is a special gift.
Merry Christmas!
Blessings!
Pamela Martin
Head of Academy