Advent Week 2: Peace on Earth

Isaiah 9:6 – For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

The Origins of Advent

Advent is not a new tradition. Scholars believe that the Advent period was a season of preparation for new Christians as they move towards the Feast of Epiphany in January. Advent is rooted in the latin word for “arrival.” It seems that over time the Advent season became tied to Christmas sometime in the middle ages. Today, most Christians hold Advent dear as a time to focus on the coming of Christ and his birth story.

We are entering week 2 of Advent. The theme this week is Peace! This peace isn’t necessarily a respite from war. This word in the Hebrew is shalom. It more closely means complete or perfect. Jesus IS God’s peace. His perfection.

Peace on Earth! That’s right! Jesus is born. So, God’s peace, His shalom is now come to earth in human form! The angels proclaim it to all who can hear. Peace on Earth! This isn’t just an absence of conflict. This is the coming of tranquility and harmony. Jesus is the harmonizer.

“Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” Luke 2:14

Finding Peace in Today’s Christmas Season

The challenge is how do we find this peace in today’s hectic, over-marketed and under-spiritualized season of Christmas. It starts with an intimate seeking of God and his son. Read the Christmas story. Soak in the fact that God sent His peace to each of us. Set aside the fuss and reflect on what it really means to be in His Peace! If you can hone in on that peace this will be a Christmas to remember.

How do you find peace during this season? Share your own experiences or strategies for finding peace during the holidays.