A Gift the World Cannot Give

This week, God used something very simple to speak to my heart.

I have a little wooden “Words of the Week” block that sits on my desk. It holds inspirational cards with Scripture, and every so often, I mix them up and put a new one on top. When I did that this week, the card that surfaced stopped me in my tracks.

“I am leaving you with a gift — peace of mind and heart.
And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give.
So don’t be troubled or afraid.”
John 14:27 (NLT)

It felt like a gentle tap on the shoulder from God.

Because what do I keep telling myself?
Stop. Breathe. Relax.
And here it was — another reminder that real peace doesn’t come from getting everything done, checking off lists, or keeping all the plates spinning. True peace comes from Jesus.

This season is full. So full.
The hustle, the schedules, the shopping, the decorating, the expectations — they all pile up quickly. Even the good things can feel heavy if we aren’t careful. And if I’m honest, it’s easy to start feeling overwhelmed instead of peaceful.

But that little card on my desk reminded me of something important:
Jesus already gave us the greatest gift.
Peace of mind. Peace of heart. A peace the world can’t offer and can’t take away.

I love the magic of Santa — especially through the eyes of my grandchildren. The lights, the excitement, the wonder — it’s all part of the joy of this season. But amidst all the hustle and bustle, we need to pause and remember who we are really celebrating.

The One who came humbly.
The One who brings peace.
The One who came to save us all.

So this week, when the noise feels loud and the pace feels fast, I’m reminding myself to slow down. To stop striving for calm and instead rest in the peace Jesus freely gives. The world may be busy, but my heart doesn’t have to be.

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📖 Scripture for the Week

John 14:27 (NLT)
“I am leaving you with a gift — peace of mind and heart…”

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🙏 Closing Prayer

Jesus, thank You for the gift of peace — a peace the world cannot give. Help us slow down during this busy season and remember You. Calm our minds, settle our hearts, and remind us that we don’t have to do it all. Help us celebrate You in the midst of the hustle and rest in the peace only You can provide. Amen.