Finding Peace in the Fire
The past five years have been a time for my family. My father passed away. My wife was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer (not her first rodeo with it – she was diagnosed at 28 with the same disease). We got the all-clear…and then we got the news the cancer had returned. We faced another battle with surgery and various treatments. In the midst, our kids are growing up. They graduated high school and began their continuing education through college and jobs. Needless to say, it’s been a lot to manage in a short time.
Yet, we had peace then and we have it now.
That doesn’t mean there weren’t tears and tough days. There were plenty. What I mean is there was this peace that fell over us that carried us through. During that time, we were reminded daily of the things God has done and will do again. We often thought of the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego who were thrown into the fire by King Nebuchadnezzar. Fire was swirling all around, yet they emerged unharmed. God protected them and was with them in the fire. You can read the story here in Daniel 3.
What flames are you facing today? Is it a job situation, a broken relationship, a broken trust, or a health crisis? There is no doubt the fire is real. You are very aware of its heat and its power to consume you. Yes, the fire is real, but so is God.
In this season of Advent, we turn our eyes to a different flame: the flames of the Advent candles, each representing the anticipation of the arrival of Christ.
This week, the fourth candle to be lit is the white candle of peace. That is what I pray for you and for me. Yes, peace on earth, peace with each other, but also peace in our hearts, knowing that though we walk through this fire, Jesus is with us. The Bible says so!
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33
Peace in an unpeaceful world? Yes. Jesus gives that to us and He will gladly give that to you.
Merry Christmas and may God give you the peace you are seeking.
Jack
