Plugging In to the Prince of Peace This Holiday Season

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.” - Isaiah 9:6 (KJV, emphasis added)

Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year! Have you counted how many times you have heard that statement? It is featured on the radio and highlighted in music playing throughout malls and elevators country-wide. Our minds are being molded to believe that this is the only time of the year that we will experience joy, excitement, and happiness. But the truth is that for millions of people Christmas is not so wonderful a time. There is more fear than cheer due to unrealistic expectations. Extreme expectations erase the presence and power of the Prince of Peace!

For an incredible number of people, minions of grinches, in the form of an overwhelming number of tasks, have gathered together to grab any expression, sentiment of joy from their lives. Have any of these minions stolen your joy this year? Perhaps it is the large number of holiday parties that you are expected to attend at the workplace, church or the homes of families and friends. A packed calendar full of holiday events can lead to greater anxiety than amusement and joy! Perhaps for you it is the daunting task of navigating the maze of malls to find the right gift for everyone on your shopping list. Or maybe it is becoming consumed with establishing the Christmas environment at your home with dramatic décor and decorations. When we become consumed with these activities, we have pain, hostility and misery on earth and an incredible amount of ill will toward men instead of peace on earth and good will toward men.

Challenge: Take a moment to do some self-evaluation. Have you been manipulated and mauled by these minions? At this point it may be time to recalibrate your mind and heart and reach out and touch the hand of the Prince of Peace. Maintaining a connection with the Prince of Peace will prevent you from giving someone a piece of mind void of the precious perspective that points to the reason for the season.

For the Glory of God,
 
PBKSR