Romans 12:18  If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.

Many churches have a time of peace in the days before Christmas. The church sanctuary is open all day, there's quiet music playing in the background, and the Christmas decorations beautify the church. Stay five minutes or stay an hour. Savor the quiet and the peace.

If only the next two weeks were an island of calm and peace. If only you could escape at the first hint of conflict. But that won't happen, nor is it likely that we'll be able to get everyone to follow all of our directions. We live in the tense middle ground between escape and control.

Paul gives us the direction we need. Yes, seek peace, but realize that you might not be able to guarantee it. Peace is your desire, but it might not be everyone else's goal. Paul's further direction is helpful: "Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly" (Romans 12:16). Find someone who sits alone, someone whose story is seldom heard. Listen to his or her whole story. This is the listening that God extends to us. He hears our every word. With His life, we have found our quiet place and peace.
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Helping people live life with Jesus everyday,