From Advent Conspiracy ... "Daily Advent Devotionals, Day 16"

Daily Advent Devotionals, Day 16

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”
Luke 2:13–14

Life is full of and suddenly moments. Moments in time that can forever change our perspective. When and suddenly moments appear, they can come in all shapes and sizes. They can be full of surprise, delight, joy, and healing but they can also be full of hurt, brokenness, despair, fear, and anguish.

For the shepherds who experienced this and suddenly moment their first reaction was one of fear but then peace settled in. Peace, the Shalom of God. In John 14:27 Jesus says “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”

It’s not difficult to experience His peace in those joyful moments that happen suddenly. To run into an old friend unexpectedly or to receive an unexpected promotion or encouragement. These are the good and suddenlys that are welcomed with much delight.

But what about the other kind? When the car appears out of nowhere or we receive a phone call with devastating news. Maybe we go to our place of employment to find out we have been let go, or the sudden death of someone dearly loved. No matter what the circumstance this one thing remains. His peace will be there, overshadowing, hovering over the pain, the fear the anguish.

He is always present.

Reflect

Have you experienced any and suddenly moments recently? I want to encourage you, His peace was in the chaos. He is always present, in the moment. And He cares deeply for you.

Pray

Father,

Today, for all the and suddenly moments that happen, let us reach out to You knowing that You care and that Your peace is there, ever present in every moments of our lives.

Amen.

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Advent Conspiracy was founded on the radical idea that we can celebrate Christmas humbly, beautifully, and generously. Advent is the story of a wondrous moment when God entered our world to make things right. It is the greatest story ever told and it changes everything — including the way we celebrate Christmas.

Be part of a different story this Christmas, one that celebrates our King and brings hope to a watching world ...

• Worship Fully
• Spend Less
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... and join the groundswell of Christ-followers who are choosing to make Christmas what it should be—a joyous celebration of Jesus’ birth that enriches our hearts and the world around us.