Advent: Focus on Peace
On Week Two of Advent (December 7-13), the theme is PEACE. Oh, how our world needs peace and how my own soul longs for greater peace. I hope you’ll join me for a brief Advent reflection.
In the Introduction to her Advent devotional, Let the Weary World Rejoice! Gail Johnsen, D.Min., says, “The Advent season serves as an intentional time of attuning our hearts, in the busyness of our days, to recognize all the unexpected ways Jesus still comes to us. In a world of distractions, we may miss His coming all together if we don’t give intentional practice to paying attention.”
The hectic holiday season, which runs from Thanksgiving through New Years, often robs our PEACE. Finding PEACE amidst the frenzy can be challenging.
Last year, a younger friend talked to me about her unpeaceful heart. She explained. “My family is dysfunctional all year long, but during Christmas, it becomes toxic! How does the Lord want to help me deal with this?” I asked this special young woman if she had ever set aside time to contemplate Jesus during the season of Advent. I suggested a devotional which had been meaningful to me—Making Room in Advent – 25 Devotions for a Season of Wonder by Bette Dickinson.
My friend purchased the book, meditated on each devotion, and in January told me that this spiritual practice had changed not only her heart but also the trajectory of Christmas with her family. Together, we rejoiced in the PEACE Jesus, the incarnate God, brought into this situation!
The prophet Isaiah foretold PEACE the promised Messiah would bring:
For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given;
and the government shall be upon his shoulder,
and his name shall be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of PEACE. Isaiah 9:6 (ESV)
The night of Jesus’ birth, the angels declared PEACE:
“Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth PEACE among those with whom he is pleased!” Luke 2:14 (ESV)
Shortly before returning to his heavenly home, Jesus promised a legacy of PEACE:
PEACE I leave with you; my PEACE I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you.
Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. John 14:27 (ESV)
Prayer for the Second Week of Advent
Jesus,
The ancient prophet called you Prince of PEACE.
You came into this hurting world as a tiny babe,
And the angels sang PEACE on earth.
For those who feel frightened or despondent this sacred season,
Would you please reveal to their troubled hearts
True PEACE that can only be found in you?
Amen
Blessings, and may PEACE reign in your heart and home this Advent season!
