It’s only fitting that the value we are focusing on as a school this week is 'peace'. I’m sure I am not the only one whose life is feeling anything but peaceful right now. For many of us, it’s arguably the busiest time of the year; trying to finish the work year well, setting up for a strong start to the new year, Christmas parties, events, planning, shopping, budgeting, and on it goes. This extra-busy season also coincides with the time of year when we are the most exhausted from the year behind us. It’s hot. Tempers are short. Parking spaces are few. There is still so much to get done.
However, peace is coming. I can just see it on the horizon. The peace I am longing for looks like Christmas movies in the air-conditioning with the family, lazy mornings, 4WD trips on the beach with an esky and some fishing rods, and looking at my calendar and seeing the words 'no events today'.
Peace is something that followers of God have longed for throughout many different periods of human history. Most notable, of course, would be the long-anticipated coming of the One promised to be the 'Prince of Peace' (Isaiah 9:6-7). For generation after generation, the story of the Old Testament communities was one of waiting.
Finally, when the time of waiting was complete, Jesus arrived. Born in a small Judean village carved into the stony hill country, the Messiah entered the human situation to bring God’s peace to all who will receive it. God’s peace is a gift for us now, knowing that our lives are best lived in His care and provision, and peace in the future when He comes to take us home.
May you find peace this Christmas season. Once the dishes are done and the wrapping paper is in the recycling bin, may there be joy and rest. However, may you also find peace in Jesus, knowing that He knows you, loves you, and entered the human experience because of you.
Merry Christmas.
Pr Michael Chapman
Head of Campus Ministries
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