Deeper Peace

Yesterday was the first Sunday in Advent. As an aspect of worship, we prepared our sanctuary. We put up added greens. We hung Chrismons. We brought in the manger. And we reflected on the symbolism of each item.

I know some of you may have started to prepare in your own homes as well. Usually, at this time of year, many of us are starting to hang lights, buy gifts, plan for parties, and all the rest of the tasks that typically go with this time of the year.

I do know that this time of year can be difficult for many people. And truly for all of us, if we’re not intentional about it, the season just happens. It becomes a blur. And we miss the greater depth it has to offer. Christmas comes and goes without hardly a second thought to the Christ Child who comes offering deeper peace.

All of this raises the questions: How do we move from the busy and superficial to the sacred and meaningful? How do we navigate the loneliness and isolation many feel?

I think the answers may look different for each of us. But I do think the questions are worthy of some reflection. And I do trust that in the very asking, in the very desire itself, Christ meets us. 

Let us pray: Loving God, we claim the promise today that what you began on Christmas morning more than 2,000 years ago, you will one day bring to completion. As we long for your peace, as we long for depth, meet us in our longing. And then, help us to make decisions and commitments that reflect that longing. Meet us in this holy time, we ask in Jesus’s name. Amen.