Advent Week 2

By: Kurt Barnes

In a world that often feels like it’s spinning out of control, where challenges seem to multiply and hope can feel elusive, the pursuit of peace becomes more crucial than ever. In this busy holiday season, many find themselves struggling to embrace the joy and celebration traditionally associated with this time of year. Life’s hardships, especially within our families, can cast a long shadow over what should be moments of happiness.

The concept of serenity – that state of being calm, peaceful, and untroubled – may seem like an unattainable dream for many. Yet, it’s precisely this inner peace that we’re called to seek, even amidst life’s storms. The famous Serenity Prayer encapsulates this beautifully:

“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”

This prayer serves as a powerful reminder of a fundamental truth: we cannot control everything in life, especially when it comes to our relationships with others. Many of us are grappling with challenging family dynamics, whether it’s with our children, parents, or siblings. The weight of these struggles can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and a sense of being out of control.

But there’s hope. The Bible speaks of a “Prince of Peace” – Jesus Christ – who was prophesied about 700 years before His birth. This Prince of Peace offers a gift that the world cannot give: true inner peace. It’s not a peace dependent on circumstances, but one that transcends our earthly troubles.

The journey towards this divine peace unfolds in three significant stages:

1. Peace with God The starting point of all peace is reconciliation with our Creator. The Bible describes our natural state as one of conflict with God, but through Jesus Christ, we can be restored to friendship with Him. This reconciliation is not based on our efforts but on what Jesus has done for us on the cross. It’s a gift of grace that brings us into harmony with God.
2. Peace Within Once we have peace with God, we can experience the peace of God within us. This inner serenity is not dependent on external circumstances but on our connection to Jesus. It’s a fruit of the Holy Spirit, impossible to manufacture on our own. Even in the midst of trials and sorrows, we can tap into this supernatural peace that surpasses all understanding.
3. Peace with Others Having experienced God’s peace personally, we’re then called to be peacemakers in our relationships. Jesus blessed the peacemakers, calling them children of God. Being a peacemaker isn’t about avoiding conflict but actively pursuing reconciliation and the wholeness that the Hebrew concept of ‘shalom’ embodies.

Becoming a peacemaker requires initiative and action. It’s not about being a “peace-wisher” or a “peace-dreamer,” but someone who actively works towards peace. This might involve taking the first step towards reconciliation, even when it’s difficult. It means speaking with gentleness and using words that build others up rather than tear them down.

However, it’s important to recognize that sometimes, peace isn’t possible. We’re called to live at peace with everyone “if it is possible, as far as it depends on you.” There may be situations where others are determined to remain in conflict, but our responsibility is to pursue peace to the best of our ability.

So how can we practically work towards being peacemakers, especially in our family relationships?

1. Pray: Before addressing any conflict, talk to God about it. Prayer provides perspective, tenderness, and power. It allows God to work on our hearts and give us insight into the deeper issues at play.
2. Take Initiative: Make the first move towards reconciliation. Whether it’s a phone call, a letter, or a visit, take action to address the conflict.
3. Speak with Love: Remember that a gentle answer turns away wrath. Use words that are helpful and build others up according to their needs.
4. Experience Peace Yourself: We can’t give what we don’t have. To be effective peacemakers, we must first experience God’s peace in our own hearts through His grace.

The call to be a peacemaker is challenging but vital in our fractured world. It requires us to be instruments of God’s peace, sowing love where there is hatred, pardon where there is injury, and hope where there is despair. As we approach this holiday season, let’s commit to being agents of peace in our families and communities.

Remember, true peace isn’t found in the absence of conflict but in the presence of Christ. As we navigate the complexities of our relationships, may we continually turn to the Prince of Peace, allowing His serenity to fill our hearts and overflow into the lives of those around us. In doing so, we might just find that the peace we’ve been seeking becomes the very gift we’re able to offer to a world in desperate need of it.