The Wonder of His Peace Message Notes: What causes you the most chaos at Christmastime, potentially robbing you of peace? This week’s memory verse: “We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.” - Isaiah 53:6 One day this week, read: Luke 2:1-14. Another day this week, read: Psalm 23. And on a 3rd day, read: John 10:1-15 & Isaiah 53:6. With each day’s reading, ask and answer: What do I see in these biblical lines that brings me awe, wonder, holy WoW for the season? What do I see that causes me to wonder, to ask a deeper question, or ponder a deeper truth? How do I sense more of God’s peace because of these wondrous words? Serve Opportunity: Get a box or a large bag. Many times, we focus on what the Good Shepherd needs to provide for us and forget to look on what he has already provided. Walk around your home and thank God for his provisions as you look into the fridge and pantry, your closets, the living room, your savings, etc. If it helps, speak the blessings you find all around you out loud, or even start writing them out. The list may grow so long you need to stop because your hand starts cramping. The box/bag is for going through these many blessings and finding the ones you can remove from your home to donate as a blessing to someone else. Prayer Pattern: Here’s a breath prayer for this week, a simple practice with a big impact. Breathe in and say silently to yourself, “The Good Shepherd . . .” Breathe out and say to yourself, “. . . is always with me.” Repeat this a few times and use it throughout your days when you need to encounter greater peace from the Good Shepherd, Jesus. Then pray for the first person who comes to mind when you think of who may need God’s profound peace. Pray for God’s peace that passes all understanding, both for yourself and that person. Consider reaching out to that person with encouraging, shepherd-like words.