“For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
Isaiah 9:6
When it feels like you just have too much to do and you’re spinning like an out of control toy top, it is time to H.A.L.T! H.A.L.T., a long-standing practice of the 12 Step recovery community, is a self-care checklist. Am I too Hungry? Angry? Lonely? Tired? If any or all of these resonate with you, it’s time to step back for a breather–literally. The simple action of pulling your attention back from an outer focus and taking a few deep breaths creates a calm space in your mind. Oxygen flowing through your body temple opens the way for love to flow through your heart. As love flows, your soul receives awareness of God’s peaceful Presence.
The beautiful vision of peace expressed by the Hebrew prophet Isaiah is an essential element of the celebration of Jesus’ birth. This vision sparks within us hope for good and the faith to bring it to fruition. Jesus realized God’s Presence within himself. His birth, teachings, and life are his invitation to make that same realization for ourselves. Peace comes not from waiting for it to be granted by some other person. Peace comes when we do as Jesus did. Peace comes when we determine that we will discover in ever enriching measure God’s Presence within us.
We all long for peace. This Christmas dwell on Isaiah’s vision and know that the son that has been given lives within you. It is your divine Christ nature. That divinity is your very essence, the Presence of God in you. The Holy Child lives through you and all authority to express with wisdom, power, nurture, and peace is yours.
Rich Blessings of Christmas Love and Light,
Rev. Anna
