Christmas Peace

Vern’s first Christmas hasn’t gone the way he imagined. He has enjoyed the Christmas songs streaming through the house and can be found squished up in front of the fire. He’s enjoyed the tree and if some morsels from the baked cookies fall from the counter, he’s there to retrieve them. But Vern never expected to be wearing red antlers and lights on top of his head.

I’m sure Vern is wondering what the big deal is about this time of year and the holiday we are celebrating. And with this year, I’m sure others are asking questions about who this Savior is that was born so many years ago, and why He hasn’t saved us from all the effects of Covid.

“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

“Glory to God in the highest heaven,
    and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:8-14)

Note the words of the angels. “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

They were declaring that through Jesus would come peace. Maybe not the physical resolution we are all looking for, but a deeper inner peace that comes from realizing who the baby was and the man he became.

This year we have all been humbled. And with the humility comes insight that can only be seen when we are weak. This Christmas, as we approach the manger, stop for a moment and peer in. You might be amazed at the gift of peace you’ll find.

After the lights were placed on his head, Vern climbed under the ottoman to brush the apparatus off.  And once he was free of the irritating head dress, he rested in peace.