Second Sunday of Advent, Arrival!

Second Sunday of Advent, Arrival!
Peace on Earth
Luke 2:14 & Colossians 3:15

The Secret to finding peace . . .

“Be still, and know that I am God.
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!”
Psalm 46:10

I was sixteen when I totaled my first car. In retrospect, I realize now that excessive speed on a winding, dark country road by an inexperienced driver was probably a bad idea. Seemed like a good idea at the time as I hoped to impress a girl. This, actually, had the opposite effect.

Fast forward a few years - I still tend to bump into things (and cars). Last week a friend came to me for advice on car insurance. I am enthusiastic in my endorsement of one company because of their customer support. Holding the drivers wheel of a car is a big responsibility. When you ride with me, it’s best to get in, buckle up, and hold on tight. In the same way, yielding control of the drivers seat of our lives to God is a powerfully good plan.

The Bible clearly calls us to yield the drivers seat to God. “Be still” literally means “give up by letting your hands down,” or more simply, to “stop your fighting!” We are stressed out and “striving” when we fight God for control of our lives. If we decide to surrender control to Him, the peace of Christ that surpasses all understanding will give us rest and joy.

But many of us are reluctant to release control of our lives. Our schedules, fears, goals, and even our pain remain in our ever-weakening grip. Our fight to retain the drivers seat produces anxiety disorders, stomach ulcers, stress, and depression. When we let go and let God take control, we experience the peace that comes from trusting the only trustworthy One in the universe.

There are only two cures for striving and the stress it brings;
~ Focusing on knowing the Sovereign God of the universe in a more real and intimate way every day (Jeremiah 29:13) and,
~ Confessing our need for control as we surrender to God daily in prayer. In other words, to stop striving and start abiding (John 15)

The “good news” promise of “peace on earth” is for those upon whom His favor rests. In order to experience this peace, all we have to do is “let go,” and make room for the Prince of Peace to rule and reign in our hearts.

This Christmas, He’s waiting for you to yield control of your life to His Sovereign plan. When you do, you’ll receive the best gift of all - peace with God.

Can’t wait to see you Sunday,
Pastor Steve
Growth Group Discussion Guide
Week of December 11th

Q: When does your Christmas tree go up? Who trims it? How? What other traditions from your childhood do you observe?

Q: At what time during your day do you experience the most peace? Where and when does this occur? What are the circumstances?

READ FIRST: Luke 2:8-21 & Colossians 3:12-15

Q: Of all the people angels could have visited, why do you suppose God sent them to the shepherds? How does that relate to Mary’s song? (1:46-55)

Q: What three titles are given to Jesus in verse 11? What is significant about them?

Q: Who are the recipients of the angels promise of “peace on earth?” What is the Lord’s “favor” or “pleasure” that is referred to here? How do we receive it?

Q: Mary “treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” What about these events might have been “treasured” in her heart? (v. 19)

Q: What do you treasure most about Jesus?