The theme of the second week of Advent which begins Sunday, is peace.
Just like when we speak of hope, when we talk about peace it’s important to define our terms. People talk a lot about wanting peace when I think they really might mean is that they want ease, comfort, and smooth sailing. At least that is what I do sometimes — I confuse ease with peace.
That can be a problem.
If we don’t recognize peace as more than smooth sailing, it can lead to a skepticism toward Jesus, who is the Prince of Peace. Its easy to get disappointed when life is hard, and enough disappointment can lead to cynicism. Pretty soon we might begin to wonder if the Prince of Peace is on vacation or just isn’t paying attention to us…
There is a real danger in confusing peace with the absence of friction or conflict.
Biblical peace has to do with something much deeper than smooth sailing. While it does encompass tranquility, Biblical peace also has to do with wholeness and completeness. A great video exploring the concept of Biblical peace from the folks at the Bible Project can be found HERE.
This weekend, as we come into the second week of the Advent season, maybe slip away for some time of reflection on the theme of peace.
Here are a few questions that could help you meditate on peace:
- Are you at peace with where God has placed you lately?
- How have you seen the Holy Spirit bring peace to your life?
- What prayers for peace are heavy on your heart?
Or look up these verses and spend some time meditating on what they say about peace:
- Isaiah 26:3
- John 14:27 and John 16:33
- Philippians 4:6-7
- Colossians 3:15
Jesus’ peace is so much more more than simply an absence of conflict. It is deeper satisfaction in Him and His presence no matter the circumstances. May you be able to look up from wherever you are today and gaze into His loving eyes upon you and be filled with true peace in Him.
May you find more peace in Him.
Perhaps Advent is unfamiliar to you. To learn more check out this PDF. If you'd like a few tools and reminders to help you celebrate each of the four weeks of Advent this year, I have a little gift package of printable declarations and verses plus a phone wallpaper for each of the four weeks of Advent. You can request your copy of it here.