Because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun
will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death,to guide our feet into the path of peace.
–Luke 1:78-79
These are the last words of the prophecy spoken by Zechariah. I love how they indicate what God’s tender mercy is doing–it’s guiding our feet into the path of peace.
Today, a mass email went to my congregation, asking how I could pray for them. Of the hundreds that went out, many are coming back, and I am gripped with compassion as I read them and pray.
Some are praying for relatives who are dying. Others are out of work. Some don’t know how they will afford anything for Christmas for their children. Some are feeling lonely because of a divorce or abandonment of a spouse. Surgeries. Decisions. Trouble. Depression. Isolation.
The list could go on and on. How much we need a path of peace, and God is looking to guide us into that path!
I love that it’s a path! He doesn’t say God is leading us to refuge of peace or a fortress of peace, but that God is leading us to a place of progress out in the open that GOES somewhere.
Sometimes, when we’re looking for peace, we just want some hostility or trouble or need to relent. God has in mind a journey–to take us somewhere and give us peace in the midst of it.
May God guide your feet in the path of peace this Advent!