Morning Devotional 120525 Slow Down and Find Peace

Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room

December 5, 2025 

John 20:19-23

4 But you aren’t in darkness, brothers and sisters, so the day won’t catch you by 19 It was still the first day of the week. That evening, while the disciples were behind closed doors because they were afraid of the Jewish authorities, Jesus came and stood among them. He said, “Peace be with you.” 20 After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. When the disciples saw the Lord, they were filled with joy. 21 Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father sent me, so I am sending you.” 22 Then he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive anyone’s sins, they are forgiven; if you don’t forgive them, they aren’t forgiven.”

Good Morning! Peace be with you!

I am mesmerized by watching falling snow. For me, it represents hope, peace, joy, and love all in one. Snow brings the hope of a bright new beginning, peace in the gentle falling of snow, joy in the laughter of children playing, and love in the memories of snow days when I was a child, baking cookies with my mom. 

The purity of each snowflake provides a special cleansing, revealing a new lease on life. For a moment, it feels as if all is right with the world as I slow down and gaze out my window. 

This upcoming Sunday, we light the candle of peace. For various reasons, Thanksgiving and the First week of Advent are jam-packed with joyous, amazing, fruitful gatherings that inspire me to “get ready” for this special season. Each event has its own purpose, but by the time I reach the 2nd Sunday of Advent, I’m ready to embrace the peace promised and offered by Jesus. 

Today’s snow is a beautiful glimpse of the peace for which I long. Maybe I can transport myself back in time and do a little baking to honor the traditions of past snow days. If you open your heart, I bet you can smell the odors wafting in your memories. 

Lord, you bless us abundantly! We often ask for peace. The same peace you freely offer to us. Help us reach out and accept peace. We love you, Lord! In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen

Thought for the day: In the midst of the turmoil and chaos, Jesus offers us peace.

Relive one of your best childhood memories and feel the peace! Pastor Liz