Home For Christmas

“I'll Be Home For Christmas”– that's a song we hear every year. When you say  the word, “home,” what visions feel you mind? What does it mean to you to be “home for Christmas?”

For me, it means peace. Home is a place and an environment that is at peace, calm, surrounded by my family, filled with love, remembering days gone by and looking forward to the days ahead. It hasn't always been that way for me. Perhaps you could say the same too. There are times when many of us face trials and obstacles to overcome. I've come to cherish the words from James:

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (James 1:2-4) (NIV)

I look back over the events of my life so far and even though there are a few things I would like to erase, I acknowledge the fact that God has used each and everything in my life to strengthen me, grow my faith and get me where I need to be. Many of us believe, ” Nothing is coincidence,” myself include. God tells us in Jeremiah:

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11) (NIV)

I don't believe we are puppets on strings or God's robots, but I do believe that we all make choices and God knows before hand what choices we will make, whether they are in His will or not, depending on whatever choice we make, there will be consequences and path that we go down because of that choice. Nothing happens by chance. God is still in the midst of all even in those times we cannot sense His presence, He is there.

“The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV)

“Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the LORD.” Jeremiah 1:8 (NIV)

Peace, that's what God has brought to my home this year. Through a series of events over the past few years, God has brought me to a place where I firmly acknowledge that I am never, ever alone and that He is with me. God is always with me. He has made Himself at home within my heart and there is peace.

Can you say the same thing? When you think about home and being, “home for Christmas,” is there peace within your life?

“But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 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 14:26-27) (NIV)

Home is now a place where happy memories are made and cherished. I have so much to be thankful for. We are truly blessed. I've learned to take pleasure in the little things and be content with what God has provided. He has provided abundantly! I want for nothing. 

“Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.” (Psalm 119:18) (ESV)

May the Lord open the eyes to your heart this Christmas so that you see all things anew and may He bring peace to your home too.