Advent Week 2: Peace on Earth

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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.

Advent Week 1: Anticipation of Hope

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Advent Week 1: Anticipation of HOPE!

Isaiah 40:3-5: “A voice cries out: ‘In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be raised, and every mountain and hill shall be made low; the crooked shall become straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth; and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together; for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.'”

The first week of Advent marks the beginning of a season of preparation and anticipation for Christmas. This week is traditionally associated with hope, a sense of longing, and confidence in the promise of something good to come. Just as the prophets of old looked forward to the coming of the Messiah, we, too, are invited to embrace the spirit of expectation during this sacred time.

The first week of Advent reminds us that we are not alone in our yearning for something more, something beyond the ordinary. We are part of a long line of people who have hoped for a savior, a light in the darkness, a reason to believe in the world’s goodness. This hope is not based on wishful thinking or fleeting emotions; it is grounded in the unshakeable belief that God is with us, always present, always working to bring about good in the world.

As we embark on this journey of Advent, let us open our hearts to the promise of hope. Let us allow ourselves to be filled with anticipation for Christmas’s joy and wonder. Remember that we are not waiting in vain; we are waiting for the arrival of the One who will bring peace, love, and salvation to the world.

Thanksgiving: A Biblical Perspective

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Thanksgiving: A Biblical Perspective

Thanksgiving is a time-honored tradition that brings families and communities together to express gratitude for the blessings of the past year. As Christians, we can approach Thanksgiving from a Biblical perspective, recognizing that gratitude is not just a seasonal practice but a way of life that aligns with God’s Word. Let’s explore some key biblical principles that can deepen our understanding of and engagement with Thanksgiving.

Gratitude as a Command:
In the Bible, gratitude is not merely a suggestion; it is a command. In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, we read, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” This verse reminds us that regardless of our circumstances, we are called to be thankful. Even in times of adversity, we can find reasons to be grateful, knowing that God is with us and working all things for our good.

Thanksgiving as Worship:
Thanksgiving is not just a social gathering but an act of worship. Psalm 100:4 says, “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” When we give thanks, we are acknowledging God’s goodness and sovereignty in our lives. Our gratitude becomes an offering to Him, recognizing His love, care, and faithfulness.

Blessings and Stewardship:
As Christians, we are stewards of the blessings God has bestowed upon us. Whether it’s our time, talents, or material resources, we are called to use them wisely and share them with others. Thanksgiving is an opportunity to reflect on how we can be better stewards of what God has entrusted to us, showing love and compassion to those in need.

Generosity and Giving Back:
Thanksgiving is an excellent time to reflect on the principle of giving. Acts 20:35 reminds us of Jesus’ words, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” As we count our blessings, we can consider how we can give back to our communities and support those less fortunate. Engaging in acts of charity and kindness is a tangible way to live out our faith during this season.

Fostering Unity:
Thanksgiving is a time for family and friends to come together. In Ephesians 4:3, we are encouraged to “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” As we gather with loved ones, we can seek opportunities to promote unity, forgiveness, and reconciliation within our relationships, reflecting the reconciling work of Christ.

Thanksgiving from a Christian, Biblical perspective goes beyond the traditional turkey feast. It is an opportunity to deepen our faith, express gratitude in all circumstances, and live out our Christian values of love, generosity, and unity. As we gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, may our hearts be filled with thanksgiving to God for His abundant blessings, and may we seek ways to share His love with others in the spirit of Christ.