Finding Strength in Stillness: Embracing the Quiet Hope

When we lived in Prince George, BC, we received a call from the President of the Catholic Women's League. Their church was having a Christmas party, and they could not find a speaker. Jackie, the church secretary, recommended me. The lady on the other end of the line was a little troubled that a Baptist Pastor would be speaking to them. Jackie assured them that I would be very professional and not do anything to offend.

As I prayed and prepared for the event, I felt drawn to the passage in Luke 2:19, which speaks of Mary treasuring and pondering the events surrounding Jesus' birth in her heart. After all, the women of that day did not scrapbook like we do.

Scripture:“ But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” – Luke 2:19

The wrapping paper has been cleared, the joyful chaos has quieted, and the celebration of Christmas is now a cherished memory. For many of us, this is the moment when the weight of our to-do lists eases, and we finally exhale. But as the noise subsides, what remains?

In Luke 2:19, after the shepherds' visit and the angelic proclamation of Christ's birth, Mary found herself in a moment of stillness. The incredible events surrounding Jesus' birth had unfolded, yet she chose to treasure and ponder these things quietly in her heart.

Like Mary, we, too, are invited to treasure the moments of the season and reflect on their deeper meaning. The gifts exchanged, the meals shared, and the joyful gatherings are reminders of God’s love manifested through the gift of Jesus. But now, in the quiet after Christmas, we can slow down to truly embrace the hope and peace He brings.

Questions to Reflect On:

1. What moments of God’s faithfulness stood out to you this Christmas?

2. How can you carry the joy of Christ into the coming days, even as the decorations are put away?

3. Is there a simple way to extend the love of Jesus into your community or family as the year ends?

4. 
   

Prayer:

Dear Lord, as the celebration of Christmas fades into memory, may my heart remain fixed on the wonder of Your gift. Help me to treasure the moments that revealed Your love and to carry the light of Christ into the quiet days ahead. Renew my hope, restore my joy, and guide my steps as I prepare for the new year. Amen.

Action Step:

Set aside a moment of stillness today to thank God for His blessings and to ask Him to guide you in the coming year. Perhaps journal your reflections or write down one small way you can intentionally live out His love in the weeks ahead.