Journeying to Grace

While preparing for today’s entry, I had ‘peace’ on my mind, and the sight of the unusual stillness of this squirrel in the tree caught my eye. Normally, the squirrels in our yards are hurried in multiple directions, so I noticed this one remaining in place while very strong winds moved the branches all around. The scene was one of stillness, calm, and waiting in peace despite feeling the powerful gusts. It was a little reminder to me to be still and to hold on.

During this second week of Advent, we are encouraged to take time to be still and in faith hold on to the Peace of Christ. The Prayer of St. Francis is one of my favorite prayers and songs, so when we sang it to begin this second week of Advent focused on ‘peace,’ it was especially moving and timely. ‘Make me a channel of your peace’ is not just a wonderful prayer; it is our mission. These words are a reminder that while we are seeking the unique and soothing personal peace of Christ in our hearts this Advent, we are also called to be channels or instruments of peace in the places we are and to the people we encounter. We are called to both seek peace and be peace.

Advent is an ideal time to do our best to trust God with our troubles, conflicts, and worries so the healing Peace of Christ can truly work in us and prepare us to receive the perfect love of God at Christmas. Advent is an invitation to stop, be still, and hold on to the promise of peace given to us on Christmas day, “…and on earth, peace and goodwill toward men.” (Luke 2:14) We find this peace through our faith and trust in God, especially when life doesn’t feel peaceful. We hold on to His peace, not to avoid storms and chaos, but to get through them. In this second week of Advent, how have we done so far with taking time to stop, be still, and hold on to the Peace of Chris? Are we praying about what may be causing our hearts to be heavy? If there is turmoil in our hearts, do we need to reconcile with someone? Do our hearts ache in any places in our lives that lack harmony?

As instruments of the Peace of Christ, we are not tasked to solve problems, fix conflicts, or smooth over relationships for someone else, but we are encouraged to offer solace and consolation. Where do we need to be the instruments of God’s peace this Advent? In our homes…in our places of work…in our faith communities…in our neighborhoods? Any movement or offering of peace is an act of goodwill toward our sisters and brothers.

Christ brought peace with Him and gave it to us to accept, to trust, and to share. Let us pray that especially during Advent, we find God in the stillness and know the comfort of His everlasting peace.  “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.” (John 14:27)