Settle In

Picture this with me, beloved.

As we walk our path together, the air becomes that bitter, damp cold that goes right through you.

We stiffen from the chill in our bones but continue walking ahead, our breath forming one big cloud in the air as our feet crunch in unison on the frozen leaves beneath us.

Suddenly, we see this quaint cabin in the distance, smoke billowing from the chimney, sending warmth into the frigid air, beckoning us to come in to warm up.

We feel God nudging us to go on in.

Alright, if we must.

Walking in, we see a simple room with comfy furniture, hear the sounds of a crackling fire, and smell something that we all swear reminds us of our grandmother's cooking.

We cuddle up, get cozy by the fire, and warm ourselves with cocoa and tea.

Our bodies relax, and we feel the warmth envelop and soothe us.

This lovely scene is how I picture God's love for us.

God welcomes us in and warms the chill in our bodies from years of tension and stress.

He doesn't want to rehash everything with judgment or condemnation; He wants to comfort us with His love and care.

God beckons us to settle in and let Him ease our troubled minds and hearts.

After all, God sent Jesus to this world to offer us peace instead of suffering.

The peace given to the beloved children of God is such a gift.

This place we've pictured sure feels peaceful.

We can use this imagery to pull us back to the truth of who God is when we feel frazzled and frenetic with all the chaos within and around us.

Get cozy and imagine yourself being swaddled in love and kindness.

Settle in, beloved.

This is so nice we might stay here for a while.

Matthew 11:28-30

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

John 14:27

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not be afraid.

2 Thessalonians 3:16

Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.