December 4, 2017
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"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:6
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Cravings
— we all have them. There’s the classic appetite dualism of “Sweet vs.
Savory” ― the yearning for sugar or salt. Then there is my crucial morning
quest for caffeine disguised in a hot and oh, so delightful cup of coffee.
Cravings can go much deeper. Deep desires compel us to search
for something or someone to quench the unyielding thirsts of our souls. The
elusive quest has many labels. Acceptance, love, respect. High on the list,
for nations and individuals, is peace. Civil war, ethnic conflicts,
domestic violence, and divorce all create a growing hunger for peace. A
famous entertainer quipped, “I would give my fortune for a moment of
peace.”
Is it possible that God placed these universal desires
in us to compel us to seek Him? Saint Augustine seemed to be convinced when
he prayed, “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our heart is
restless until it rests in you.”
Think of it for a moment: Jesus is the Prince of Peace.
He told His followers, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I
do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled
and do not be afraid” (John 14:27). We can seek peace from other
sources ― a walk in the woods, through strong friendships, and in the
places we live — but the ultimate lasting peace does not come through
circumstances. God’s peace is rooted in His unchanging character. Develop a
craving for it, and He will satisfy you.
Jesus, thank you that you came to give the gift of peace
to me and each person everywhere. You are truly the Prince of Peace. I
invite you to transform my heart, soul, and mind with your peace. Amen.
Go
Deeper ― What do you crave? How are you seeking to satisfy
your longing? Is it possible you are seeking things and people to satisfy
what only God can ultimately fulfill?
Try
This — If you want to experience more spiritual peace,
breathe it in, then let it out: Spiritual Oxygen.
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