The second candle we light is for the second week of Advent and it represents peace. It’s the standard answer for a beauty pageant contestant. “If you could have one wish come true what would that be?” WORLD PEACE. We chuckle at the answer and yet if there was ever a time our world needed peace; it is now. Israel is fighting against Palestine to eradicate the terrorist group Hamas. Russia is still trying to invade the Ukraine and although much of that fighting is no longer forefront in the news, it is reality for those living in both Russia and the Ukraine. Our children have no peace as they seek to redefine their value and worth, and at least in Canada, our government is seeking to approve euthanasia for those hurting physically, mentally and emotionally. Easy outs are being sought to eradicate the fruit of the problem rather than bringing peace to treat the root of the problem.
The peace candle is to remind us that a Prince of Peace was needed for humankind to find true peace in their hearts.
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favour rests. (Luke 2:13, 14)
This peace was promised and foretold by the prophets of old: “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. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end.” (Isaiah 9:6,7)
Christ has come—this peace is present through a relationship with Christ, and Scripture addresses this. “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace…Do not be anxious about anything, but by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God that transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Colossians 3:15; Philippians 4:6, 7)
Jesus is the answer. He is the peace the world is seeking. As we think on Christmas we can rest in our hearts and minds and take a break from all the anxiety and worry both for now and what is to come. Jesus is the Prince of Peace. He brings peace for life, peace with God, and one day, with the second coming of Christ; peace in this world.
Our song for today is Let There Be Peace by Matt Maher.