Have you read Jill Murphy’s book ‘Five Minutes Peace’? It’s a delightful children’s story about Mrs Large, who just wants a few minutes of peace away from her children. She decides to take a relaxing bath, hoping to enjoy some tranquillity with her favourite breakfast and the morning paper. However, her peace is interrupted as her children’s antics follow her into the bathroom!
Stories about the Large Family are among our 22-month-old granddaughter’s favourites, and as I read this with her recently, I reflected on how apt it was for Christmas, when many of us get swept up in the pressures of creating the perfect Christmas and lose sight of Jesus, the real reason for the season.
As we approach Christmas, the hustle and bustle of preparations can often overwhelm us, leaving little room for reflection and spiritual peace. Yet, the essence of Christmas is about more than gifts and gatherings; it’s about celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ and the peace He brings into our lives.
Amidst the Christmas preparations, let’s take a leaf from Mrs Large’s approach, and take five minutes each day to seek peace. Let’s find a quiet corner, perhaps with a cup of tea, and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. Let’s remember the calm and humble setting of the nativity scene.
Spend those precious five minutes in prayer or meditation, focusing on the peace that Jesus brings. Ask God to fill your heart with His peace, even in the busiest moments.
Reflect on the blessings in your life and express gratitude for them. A heart full of thanks can often find peace amidst chaos.
Read John 14:27: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."
Allow the words to calm your spirit and refocus your mind on the significance of the season.
Listen and reflect on the lyrics in the Hillsong carol ‘Peace Has Come:’ Peace Has Come - Lyric Video - Hillsong (Christmas)
“Holy, holy, holy
Jesus, we adore thee
Peace has come
For our King is with us.”
Join me in praying for peace in our lives:
Heavenly Father, in this blessed season of Christmas, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude and wonder. As we reflect on the birth of Your Son, Jesus Christ, we are reminded of the profound peace that His presence brings into our lives.
Lord, thank You for the gift of peace that surpasses all understanding, a peace not of this world but rooted in Your divine love. Fill our hearts with this peace, help us to pause and feel Your presence, to rejoice in the knowledge that You are with us. May Your peace calm our worries and guide our hearts towards compassion, kindness, and love for one another.
As we celebrate the miracle of Christ's birth, may we carry His light and peace into our homes, our communities, and the world. Amen.
Debbie Wilson
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