Home For Christmas: The Peaceful Home

Home for Christmas: The Peaceful Home

At Home Church our Christmas theme is Home for Christmas. There’s something special about being home for Christmas—it represents family, reunion, warmth, and belonging. For others, it brings back nostalgic traditions and a sense of comfort. But for many, this season can be far from peaceful. While we strive to create perfect moments—singing Silent Night and Joy to the World, we often find ourselves stressed, overwhelmed, and anything but at peace.

So how can we rediscover the peace that Christmas promises, not only in our homes but in our hearts?

Peace Begins in the Heart

The Bible often connects the state of our hearts to the atmosphere of our lives. Proverbs 4:23 reminds us to “guard our hearts, for everything you do flows from it.” If our hearts are full of worry, fear, or frustration, our homes will reflect that inner turmoil. Conversely, when our hearts are filled with God’s peace, that peace overflows into our lives and relationships.

So, here’s the question: Is your heart truly a home for the peace of Christ? Or is it filled with the stress and chaos that often accompany this season?

Peace in the Midst of Chaos

One of my own Christmas stories highlights how easily peace can slip away. On Christmas Eve a few years ago, after a beautiful Christingle service, I managed to crash my car into a gatepost in full view of everyone leaving church. In seconds, the joy of the evening evaporated, replaced by embarrassment, frustration, and stress. My family’s peaceful plans for the evening seemed ruined. This experience reminded me how fragile our peace can be when it depends on external circumstances. True peace, however, doesn’t come from perfect plans or a stress-free life—it comes from Jesus Christ.

The Source of Peace

Colossians 3:15 says:
"Let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful."

This verse gives us three important insights about peace:

1. Peace Comes from Christ
   The Greek word for peace, eirēnē, refers to harmony, rest, and wholeness. True peace is not about having everything together but about trusting in the One who holds everything together. As Ephesians 2:14 declares, “Christ himself has brought peace to us.”
2. Peace Should Rule Our Hearts
   The word “rule” here means to act as an umpire. Christ’s peace should govern our thoughts, emotions, and decisions, guiding us through the chaos of life.
3. We Are Called to Live in Peace
   As members of God’s family, peace is both a gift and a calling. It’s not optional—it’s part of who we are in Christ.

Lessons from Mary and Joseph

The Christmas story itself is filled with anything but peaceful circumstances:

• Mary and Joseph faced social and cultural shame as they prepared to welcome Jesus.
• They endured a long journey to Bethlehem while Mary was heavily pregnant.
• Jesus, the Prince of Peace, was born in the chaos of a stable.
• The family fled to Egypt to escape Herod’s murderous decree.

Yet, through it all, their peace was rooted in trust. Mary responded to the angel’s message with, “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true” (Luke 1:38). Joseph obeyed the angel’s instructions, even when it meant upending their lives.

Their peace was not circumstantial; it was anchored in the knowledge that God was in control.

Why Peace Matters

The enemy works hard to rob us of peace because he knows its power. Here’s why peace is so important:

1. Peace Reflects Trust in God
   When we have peace, it shows that we trust God’s sovereignty and goodness, even in difficult situations.
2. Peace Demonstrates God’s Presence
   The peace of God is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). It’s evidence of His work in our lives and His power to transform our hearts.
3. Peace is a Testimony to the World
   A peaceful Christian in the midst of chaos is a powerful witness. When others see our peace, they are drawn to Christ, the source of that peace.

Building a Peaceful Home

How can we let Christ’s peace rule in our hearts and homes this Christmas?

1. Prioritize God’s Presence
   Set aside time to worship, pray, and reflect on Jesus, the Prince of Peace. Simplify your schedule to focus on what truly matters.
2. Choose to Trust
   Peace requires letting go and trusting God’s control. Like Mary and Joseph, we must say, “Lord, I trust You,” even when life feels uncertain.
3. Pray About Everything
   Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us to bring our concerns to God in prayer. As we do, His peace, which surpasses all understanding, will guard our hearts and minds.
4. Slow Down and Simplify
   Don’t let the pursuit of a “perfect Christmas” rob you of peace. Focus on meaningful moments with loved ones and the message of Christ’s birth.
5. Cultivate Gratitude
   Gratitude shifts our focus from what’s wrong to what’s right. Colossians 3:15 urges us to “always be thankful,” even in challenging seasons.

Applicational Questions

1. What steps can you take this week to prioritize God’s presence in your life and home?
2. Are there areas in your life where you need to trust God more fully?
3. How can you practice gratitude, even in the midst of stress or challenges?
4. Who in your life needs to experience God’s peace this Christmas, and how can you be a reflection of that peace?
5. What practical changes can you make to create a more peaceful environment in your home?

Conclusion

This Christmas, don’t let the enemy rob you of the peace that Christ offers. Let your heart become a home for His peace, and let that peace overflow into your home and relationships. Remember, peace is not the absence of chaos but the presence of Christ.

Let’s embrace the Prince of Peace this season, trusting in His promises and sharing His peace with the world around us.

Jon Baldwin