Read the Word // Open your Bible to today’s First Reading: Isaiah 26:1-6
Reflect on the Word //
My shoulders tightened in anticipation of Christmas dinner. As we made the final turn into the driveway of our destination, my heart quickened, amazed at the ability of the forty-minute drive to feel like both hours and seconds, all at the same time. Thanksgiving interactions had been fiery and tearful and ultimately led to a firm setting of boundaries for future family gatherings. We laid out topics that could no longer be broached for the sake of family relationships and love for one another. This would be the first test of those boundaries.
I prayed one, slow Hail Mary before entering the house. A final deep breath, and I opened the door. And, as my feet crossed the entryway, I was met with a feeling of deep peace and consolation that could only come from God. It wasn’t that a magical switch had been flipped and everyone agreed on all things and got along perfectly, but in taking the time to intentionally ground myself in prayer and trust in the Lord’s provision, I experienced the gift of peace.
The prophet Isaiah composes a beautiful image of a city surrounded by walls and ramparts, boundaries of protection and provision from God. Could this image be a reflection of the refuge God provides when we allow Him to protect our hearts? What might it look like if we utilize those walls to shut out what draws us away from God’s peace and open the gate to purposefully allow in what respects those boundaries? “A nation of firm purpose you keep in peace; In peace, for its trust in you” (Isaiah 26:3).
The gift of peace is available to us all, sister. No matter the season or situation, when we set our foundation in the trust of God’s goodness, God will keep us in His peace. For truly, the Lord is “an eternal Rock” on Whom we can forever rely (Isaiah 26:4).
Relate to the Lord // What boundary do you need to set in order to maintain your peace today and this holiday season?
Sarah Rose, M.Div., is a wife and mother living in Cleveland, Ohio. She loves Ignatian Spirituality and is passionate about faith, social justice, and the intersection of the two. Find out more about her here.
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