Finding Peace in the Fire
It has been a year of discovery for our family, to say the least. My wife Julie continues her healing journey from stage one breast cancer. This is not her first rodeo. At age 28, she was diagnosed with the same disease; She had surgery, along with chemotherapy, and all was well on that front. It was so well that in 2019 her oncology doctor discharged her.
Fast forward to September 2021: breast cancer returned and she faced another battle with surgery and various treatments.
Yet, we have peace.
That doesn’t mean there haven’t been tears and tough days. There have been plenty. What I mean is there is this peace that has fallen over us that has carried us through. We are reminded daily of the things God has done and will do again. It reminds us 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, broken relationship, broken trust, or a health crisis like my wife and I are faced with? 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
