Finding and maintaining a deep sense of peace can be elusive in a culture that tends to prioritize things like efficiency, busyness, multi-tasking, accomplishment, and power. And the constant striving and pressure can leave us feeling stressed, exhausted and overwhelmed. 

And the world around us seems particularly chaotic, dark and unsettled right now. 

So, there is a yearning for peace to reign in our hearts and in the world around us. As we search for peace it can be tempting to turn to earthly things and behaviours hoping that they will be able to provide it. But none of these earthly endeavours will ever fully, consistently provide us the lasting peace we are looking for.

As we enter into the second Sunday of Advent may we consider the one true source of peace. This is not the type of temporary, shifting, capricious type of peace that this world promises, but the abiding, soul-resting peace that can only be found in and through the Prince of Peace, Jesus. 

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace (Isa 9:6).

So, if today you are feeling worried, unsettled, or stressed I pray that the God of hope will fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so you will overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit (Rom 15:13).

And as we are filled to overflowing with inner peace and hope may we chose to pour it out into the turmoil and discontent of this world. Choosing to be the peace-makers in our fractured relationships, struggling families, dispirited workplaces and communities. Let us become the difference makers.

Last Sunday was the first day of Advent. Where we were reminded that no matter how dark and uncertain our circumstances, we can hold hope. Hope is the expectancy that things will change and Good will triumph. It is the belief in Emmanuel, God is with us. Emmanuel is the God who saves us, and in whom we can trust all day long. -Ps 25:5 

May you be blessed this Advent season and may hope be your constant companion.