Despite Difficulties, Peace is Possible…
I have six nieces and two nephews. I love these people! I cuddled each within weeks of their births. I’ve celebrated their milestone moments—birthdays, graduations, weddings, births of their little ones. When aware of their struggles, I’ve prayed for them.
During the past few years, I’ve enjoyed several deep conversations with my nephew, Tony. Their family has been going through trying times the past few months, and one day I felt a deep urge to pray for them. Later, I sent Tony a brief email letting him know.
Tony expressed appreciation for prayers. Then he wrote, “Considering everything that’s been going on, we’re actually doing really well. Grateful for the Word and the Spirit that strengthens us and gives us peace in the storm.”
The thread of peace—despite or amid difficulty—is woven throughout Scripture.[i]
In a priestly blessing, Moses said, “The LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.” (See Numbers 6:22-27)
The psalmist implies a deep connection between right living and peace: “… righteousness and peace kiss each other.” (Psalm 85:10)
Isaiah, foretelling the birth of the Messiah, wrote “… And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (See Isaiah 9:6-7)
700 years later, a chorus of angels announced the Messiah’s birth to a group of lowly shepherds: “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (See Luke 2:1-21 for full account of Jesus’ birth)
During a violent storm, Jesus astonished his disciples when he instructed the churning waters, “Peace! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.” (Mark 4:39)
Less than 20 years after Jesus’ death and resurrection, the Apostle Paul, while under Roman house arrest, wrote to his friends, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)
During this second week of Advent, especially if you feel disturbed or are dealing with difficult circumstances, I pray that God, who has promised to remain the same yesterday, today, and forever, will give you a good dose of transcendent PEACE!
May peace fill your days this second week of Advent…
[i] Scripture references from New International Version