The “Perfect” Tree
Written by Tabitha Jermeland
"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."
-John 14:27
Our first Christmas in our new home, my husband and I picked out the "perfect" and most incredibly lush tree. The night we brought it home, we excitingly decorated it with twinkly lights and ornaments and then went to bed. After a series of events and much to our surprise, the next morning our living room was filled with spiders! Our beautiful tree became unmanageable as we attempted to contain these unwanted guests from spreading further through the house. I laugh (now) as I imagine the two of us vacuuming spiders and struggling to push the decorated tree out the door without touching them. Absolute chaos.
Advent is a season that points us to the Prince of Peace, who comes to steady our hearts in the midst of life’s surprises. True peace isn’t the absence of problems, but in trusting Jesus, the One who promised to give His followers peace through the Holy Spirit (John 14:27). When you put your faith in Jesus, He offers us Himself. We do not need to be troubled or afraid.
This Christmas season, there is the potential for chaos to distract us and unmet expectations to cause anxiety in our hearts. I encourage all of us to lean into God’s peace. Let Him carry your worries, calm your heart, and fill your home with His presence even when Christmas looks nothing like you imagined.
PRAYER: Lord, if chaos and anxiety creep in this season, help us find in You the true and lasting peace this world cannot offer.
