We think of Christmas as a joyous time, and it is. It is when we celebrate the birth of our Savior. In recent times, it seems more and more people are having problems keeping that joy intact with all the tragedies and problems that we are facing.
     We live in an unsafe world of terrorist, murders, diseases, plane crashes, car accidents and countless other catastrophes. There are thousands of accidents, sicknesses and crimes that could happen us or to those that we love at any moment. So, how do we keep from losing our minds with worry? How do we lie down in peace and sleep at night? We have to realize that our safety lies in the Lord.
     We have all known wonderful, godly people that terrible things have happened to, and we tend to question God’s provision for their safety. The truth is that while we are not promised that nothing bad will happen to us, we do have some promises to hold on to like the ones in Isaiah 41:10 that says, “Don’t be afraid for I am with you. Do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with my victorious right hand. Another promise verse in John 16:33 says, “I have told you these things, that in me you might have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
     Mary and Joseph experienced fears and uncertainties at the time of Jesus birth. They were summoned back to their hometown to pay taxes. The trip was hard on this young couple, and then to have their baby born in a stable. They learned that King Herod wanted to kill their baby and had to flee the country to keep him safe. In spite of all this can you imagine the great joy they had, looking into the face of Jesus.
     We need to remember in prayer and be sensitive to those who have lost loved ones recently or had some other life changing event. Holidays can bring that pain to the surface all over again. However, we gently need to remind them and ourselves that there is still a lot to celebrate and joy to be had. God will never leave us alone. He will give us the strength to get through anything we face. Even if we lose our lives in a tragic situation, if we know Jesus, we are safer than we have ever been as we move to our new home with the ultimate homeland security.
     This is reason enough to be joyful and sleep in heavenly peace. Sleep in heavenly peace.

I will lie down in peace and sleep for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe. (Psalm 4:8) (NIV)