Journeying Through AdventSample

All is Calm?

"Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he brought them out of their distress. He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed. They were glad when it grew calm, and he guided them to their desired haven." ~Psalm 107:28-30 (NIV)

How many times in the rush of the holiday season have you been so overwhelmed; running here and there, buying this and that, feeling the pressure of those around you? We have all been in this situation. Too often the hectic, frantic race that accompanies the holiday season is very different from what it should be. Where are the days of quiet and peace, the joy of being with family and friends. How can we find peace and calm in the midst of the storm?

Our verse today reminds us that there is always a peace available to us. “The storms will be stilled and the waves will be hushed.” The one who has the power to bring quiet to the sea, brings us the same quiet. It usually takes an intentional step away from the busyness of life to really find it. But often, as we get used to it, we may find that God can allow us a quiet moment for reflection to know we are surrounded by His loving arms, that offers peace, quiet, and stillness.

As we continue on through this season may we remember that although our outside life may be surrounded by the hustle and bustle of others, we have a loving God who is waiting to surround us with peace and stillness through every storm.

The calm from everyday responsibilities is a quiet time of reflection and a step away from the busyness we experience.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help to keep me on the path that leads to your loving and calming arms. The place where I feel comfort and peace. As the world around me moves faster and faster towards the materialistic things of the holiday season, bring me back to you and your birth; the miracle that blessed me all those years ago. Help me to take the time to be in stillness with you and reflect on the moments of joy in my life. May I always be reminded that you calm the storms around me and that when the day is over, you are there. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Written by Kelly Milne (Wesley Seminary Master of Arts in Ministry student)