(Note: This blog explores the Christmas Story and message, you’ve been warned.)
According to Luke’s account, shepherds were terrified on the night Jesus was born. The Story reports how shepherds were camped out, doing what shepherds do, watching over their sheep, when …
Suddenly, God’s angel stood among them, and God’s glory blazed around them. They were terrified. The angel said, “Don’t be afraid. I’m here to announce a great and joyful event that is meant for everybody, worldwide: A Savior has just been born in David’s town, a Savior, who is Messiah and Master. This is what you’re to look for: a baby wrapped in a blanket and lying in a manger.”
The big announcement continued with an offer: “Peace to all men and women on earth….”
Let there be peace
Our world is experiencing a shortage of peace.
Every week I hear my client’s stories. Rarely is their performance hampered by some technical aspect of the work. Instead, it’s relational. Why? Because the business of life and the business of business is people.
Leadership boils down to how you influence people. How fully you engage others. How well you communicate and listen. Leadership is the ability to lead, guide, direct, and influence people. Not manage them. But, have influence with them so together you get things done.
It’s much easier for a team to get results, achieve goals, and be a top-performing team when there is peace.
Forgiveness often required
Last week I posted, The Gift Only You Can Give which is about forgiveness. Strained relationships crush hope, peace, and achievement. Distance grows with each unfulfilled expectation and the accompanying frustration. Distrust increases eroding communication and commitment. Results are hit and miss at best.
What’s amazing is how forgiveness creates space for another human being. It allows him or her to be human and struggle to do the right thing after doing the wrong thing. The unwillingness to forgive is destined to destroy life harmony and relationships.
Peace is the reward of forgiveness allowing relationship harmony to be created or recreated. When personal conflict, oppressive thoughts, or out-of-control emotions are controlled, peace can develop.
Create Space for reflection
I hope you appreciate this video (2:00.) It’s a choir of fifth graders from Public School 22 in Staten Island, New York.
May their a cappella version of “Let There Be Peace on Earth” inspire and encourage you to seek peace in all your relationships.
What if “the peace” begins with you? What does that mean to your Story?
What relationship(s) need peace?
How will it begin with you?
Merry Christmas,
Steve