At Peace

Advent Day 8

Second Sunday in Advent

December 4, 2011

Reading: 2 Peter 3:13–14 (NRSV)

¹³ But, in accordance with his promise, we wait for new heavens and a new earth, where righteousness is at home. ¹⁴ Therefore, beloved, while you are waiting for these things, strive to be found by him at peace, without spot or blemish;

Theme: At Peace

Reflection:

Today is the Second Sunday in Advent. We light the second candle on the Advent wreath this morning, and the light of Christ grows stronger. This morning, in this text, found also in our lessons in church this morning, we hear the words: “While you are waiting…, strive to be found…at peace”! Advent, waiting, peace—those three words are sometimes difficult to associate with one another. However much we might try to strive for a sense of peace in the season of Advent, for many of us, the to-do lists are running in our heads. Shopping—check; cookie preparation—check; concert to attend—check; and so on…

How do I achieve that sense of peace??? What should I do to strive for peace? Maybe the choice of words affects our probability of getting to peace. Maybe doing and striving are what keep us from being at peace. Another way of translating that same line is: “be eager to be found at peace.” I get a totally different sense when I think of “being eager” to be at peace than “striving” for peace. When I am eager for something, I can anticipate it or hope for it, I don’t have do it.

Being “eager to be at peace” in the Advent season means taking the time to just be—to watch, wait and hope. We watch for the signs that God is at hand, we hope for Jesus’ coming, and we give ourselves time to experience the sense of peace that comes in the waiting. To let yourself experience the sense of peace, put the to-do list aside, for even a few moments, take a few breaths and give God a chance to permeate your life.

Prayer: God of tranquility, I pray for your peace to enter into my life. Help calm my busy thoughts, stop the chatter in my brain, and give me even a few moment to just be, eager for your peace. Amen