Advent Stories: Hectic Holiday

"...and on earth, peace."

Luke 2: 14

Dear Lord, it's me again. I could use some of the peace, Lord. Things are so hectic. There is this Christmas dinner to go to and that party and the play and concerts. (Oh, I must remember to make some goodies to take for the organ concert.) Ham is going on sale at Kroger tomorrow; I have to make sure and get there. I need to get the cheesecake made. My kids think we can't have Christmas without chocolate cheesecake. I haven't even bought all the gifts, let alone wrapped them, and I haven't any idea what to get for my boss...

Those shepherds always look so calm in pictures. They sure had it good, none of those busy, busy things to do. Of course, now that I think of it, they had to put up with those smelly and not-so-smart sheep. Sheep are always wandering off somewhere, and they had to defend against wild animals and thieves. So maybe they were busy, too.

Lord, I always begin to calm down when I stop for a minute and talk to you. I'm sorry to be caught up with the unimportant things that I don't think about what is really happening. When I pause, I see how beautiful the candles are, and how good the cedar and pine smell, and the Christmas music! Oh, Lord, it lifts my heart straight up. I know one day you will bring peace to the whole world, but in the meantime I'll say thank you for this little bit of peace you have tucked into my heart. And I'll keep praising you for this child you sent, who grew up and made it possible for me to have forgiveness and redemption, and to be in your presence forever.

I've got to run, Lord, so I'll say hallelujah and amen.

Vivian Zehr

2010