Across the Pastor’s Desk by Don Malinsky

 

“Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of the God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, friends, whatever things are just, pure, lovely, are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy – meditate on these things.” Philippians 4:4-8.

Our St. John’s Bible study group began with the book, “Anxious for Nothing: Finding Calm in a Chaotic World,” by Max Lucado. The book is based on the text that you just read, Philippians 4:4-8. Christmas can be a most anxious season, if we allow it to be so. We need all the help we can get.

Think of it, those five verses have four admonitions that lead to one wonderful promise: “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds” (v.7).

Celebrate God’s goodness. “Rejoice in the Lord always.” (v.4)

Ask God for help. “Let your requests be made known to God” (v.6)

Leave your concerns with him. “With thanksgiving…” (v.6)

Meditate on good things. “Think about the things that are good and worthy of praise.”

Celebrate. Ask. Leave. Meditate. C.A.L.M.

Could you use some calm this Advent season? If so, you are not alone. We all could use a little comfort, and God is ready to give it. Be alert, for the Lord is coming. May God’s peace be with you all this Christmas season and always.

In Christ,

Pastor Don Malinsky

Don Malinsky is chaplain at St. John’s Lutheran Community.