Unraveling the Meaning of Peace

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

John 14:27 (NIV)

As a person who struggles with anxiety, this verse used to be problematic for me. Whenever I read Jesus’ words, I felt sure there must be something wrong or broken within me since I could not seem to obtain Christ’s peace. My heart continually felt troubled, and fear was my unwanted companion.

It took help from professionals and years of training and practice in mindfulness and meditation to realize I could work with my anxiety and fear instead of fighting against it. I learned how to obtain peace. It is a practice I have learned to cultivate. I’m not perfect at it, but peace has become a friend I invite to sit with instead of an enigma.

This second week of Advent brings many to the subject of peace. But what does peace truly entail?  Is peace simply the absence of conflict? I feel it encompasses a deeper sense of tranquility and harmony that extends beyond external circumstances.

John 14:27 is part of Jesus’ farewell message to the disciples. Jesus would be leaving, but they wouldn’t be abandoned or alone. He was bequeathing them the gift of peace. This peace is a gift from God, and it extends to us today as well.

This week invites us to ponder the multifaceted nature of peace and its significance in our lives.

Peace Within Ourselves

The lesson I learned was that the pursuit of peace began within myself. It involved finding a sense of inner calm amidst the chaos of daily life, embracing self-acceptance, and nurturing a positive outlook. Which seems easy but takes much hard work.

Anytime fear and anxiety strikes it often paralyses me. I have had to work to turn the thoughts around. I’ve learned to find the root of the anxiety and fear to understand where or why it is there. Usually, this means I need to slow down and take time for some self-care.

It is helpful to meditate on what I’m grateful for in life. Or I will journal a time I have felt awe or love. Also, it reminds me to turn to God with prayer and guidance. This often helps me turn away from my problems and refocus on God’s love and peace.

This inner peace can serve as a guiding light, allowing us to navigate challenges with resilience and grace.

Peace in Relationships

Beyond the individual realm, peace also manifests in our relationships with others. God is a Triune God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. As such God’s very nature is to be relational. We, too, are built to be communal beings. (Yes, even introverts need other people in their lives. Maybe in more limited doses.)

The holiday season often brings people together. As much as that brings love and joy, it may also bring stress and conflict. As such, it helps to foster understanding, empathy and forgiveness. Giving others grace is a gift of itself. Cultivating a spirit of peace in our interactions can lead to deeper connections and a sense of communal harmony.

That being said, it is also important to maintain your boundaries. This does not give people permission to walk all over you or abuse you.

The Symbolism of Peace in Advent

As we light the second candle of the Advent wreath, representing peace, we are reminded of the hope and anticipation that accompany the pursuit of peace. Just as the candle’s flame illuminates the darkness, peace has the power to dispel the shadows of fear and discord, offering a beacon of reassurance and unity.

In this season of Advent, let us embrace the invitation to cultivate peace within ourselves, nurture harmonious relationships, and contribute to the collective endeavor for a more peaceful world. As we journey through the second week of Advent, may we find solace in the promise of peace and carry its light within us, illuminating the path ahead.

A Collect for Peace

“Most holy God,

the source of all good desires, all right judgments, and all just works:

Give to us, Your servants, that peace which the world cannot give,

so that our minds may be fixed on the doing of Your will,

and that we, being delivered from the fear of all enemies,

may live in peace and quietness;

through the mercies of Christ Jesus our Savior.

Amen.”

The Book of Common Prayer, Evening Prayer II p. 123

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