Thoughts
We begin the second week of Advent. It is appropriate to allow our thoughts to meditate on the message of peace, which is central to God’s reconciliation with rebellious mankind. We are so determined to go our own way, even when we desire to do good. This is obvious in the many mistakes we make when trying to help others. We often hurt those we love, unintentionally, simply because our minds are so entrapped in self preservation.
We are at war, with God, with ourselves, with others.
When we reject God, we reject goodness, even if we have no idea of what we are doing. But that is why Jesus came, so we would see God’s love for us, and understand what goodness looks like. To give us a new beginning.
God brings us into peace with Himself, which ultimately brings us peace within ourselves.
We are often at war with ourselves, and that spills into our relationships with others. The good news is that the Prince of Peace has come; in Him, we will find rest.
While there are many expressions of this rest, it is the fact that God accepts us, and that we may accept ourselves that the seed for true harmony with others is sown. Perhaps one of the past meditations and devotions on the message of this weeks advent candle can spark our understanding of the depth of God’s reconciling in His Son, Jesus Christ.
Devotionals
- Candle of Peace devotional for year 2015 reviews the names and meaning of the Advent candles during the season. A devotional thought on the theme of peace.
- Short devotional thoughts on Peace for 2007.
- Encouragement to Center on God  from2008
- Peace Within, 2015
Advent Activity
[su_box title=”Be An Instrument of Peace” style=”default” box_color=”#8ba9bd” title_color=”#000000″ radius=”3″ class=””]Make an effort to keep the bonds of peace with those around you today. Take some time today to feel more peaceful and to rest your mind. Take some minutes to sit in silence if possible, direct your thoughts towards God’s acceptance of you.[/su_box]
