I find life at 66 years is most peaceful. The ambitions of my earlier years were either fulfilled or denied by God and people. My mistakes are valued learning experiences called “wisdom” today. My children and their spouses are living in the blessings of God. We have a quiver full of grandchildren who bring delight in thought and when we are with them. I love what I do in life, ministry, teaching, and missions. Forty years of marriage gets even better. Finally, I understand what a relationship God is all about and what it isn’t. The result is peace. This Sunday of Advent brings the above to mind.
As we light the second candle of Advent, we remember the theme of peace. Peace is the absence of conflict and the profound wholeness God offers through Christ.
The prophet Isaiah foretold the coming of the Prince of Peace:
“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).
This promise found fulfillment in the birth of Jesus, who declared to His disciples, “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).
In a world filled with division, anxiety, and uncertainty, Jesus offers peace that transcends circumstances. His peace reconciles us to God, ourselves, and others. This peace is a gift of grace accessible to all who trust Him.
As we journey through Advent, let us remember that peace is not something we strive to create through our efforts but a gift we receive through surrender. Christ invites us to lay down our burdens, fears, and strife and rest in His presence.
How can you cultivate Christ’s peace during this Advent? Perhaps it’s through moments of silent prayer, reconciling a broken relationship, or trusting God in a challenging situation.
Let this Advent season be a time to embrace the peace Christ brings. “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful” (Colossians 3:15, ESV).
May His peace reign in us and through us this Advent season.
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