No other time in our history do people all over the world desire protection. Daily the media informs us of countries in conflict. A flood of displaced people flee into neighboring countries. Terrorists gun down innocent lives in Paris. In a California, a couple killed those attending a Christmas party.
On a personal level, there is that dreaded phone call or unexpected medical report. You feel vulnerable and alone. The Psalmist expressed it well. "And I said, Oh that I had wings like a dove! for then would I fly away, and be at rest" (Psalms 55:6 KJV).
We have a deep yearning for spiritual protection that brings peace and a strong measure of security. There are dark spiritual forces at work that no physical military can conquer. Even politicians with their rhetoric to secure our borders or prevent another terrorist attack can not ease national fears.
Mary was a young virgin woman living in such a fearful time. The Romans ruled the known world and oppressed nations like Israel. The religious rulers were to be a shepherd of God's people. Instead they stifled their spiritual life with the weight of the law and rules of their own making. When the Holy Spirit caused Mary to conceive, she was vulnerable to her betrothed divorcing her thus leaving her unprotected and shamed by her community.
How comforting the words of the angel. "The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God" (Luke 1:35 KJV)
Beloved, I believe these words are true for this Christmas season and for all our days. Psalms 91:1 says, "Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty." (NIV).
There is a place of protection for those who chose to dwell in His shelter.
We can try to make our own sense of protection in our homes or shield our hearts to avoid pain but unfortunately as most of us know it will fall short. As Christians we are not exempt to what others suffer but there is a peace that surpasses all understanding. Philippians 4:7 says, "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard [literally a military sentinel] your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (NIV).
May the shadow of His peace keep you this holiday season.
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