Light the First and Second Advent candle
Read John 14:25-27, “I have said these things to you while I am still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and remind you of all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.”
Read John 16:33, “I have said this to you so that in me you may have peace. In the world you face persecution but take courage; I have conquered the world!”
Am I doing enough? Am I giving enough? Will my kids be happy with the gifts I give to them this Christmas? The ongoing battle to “be enough,” “do enough,” and “be accepted” create a discord in our inner being interrupting any chance of experiencing peace in this season of expectation, waiting, and hope.
E. Stanley Jones in his book Victory Through Surrender writes about a man who people described as a “walking civil war.” This image well describes the inner battle that is rampant in our world today. Henri Nouwen speaks of this struggle as a battle with the “false self.” We search for peace and seek to conjure it from the depths of our soul, yet the invitation is for us to receive peace.
Peace found in Jesus is unwavering. When the battles of our minds and our thoughts of inadequacy begin to flow, we are reminded of Jesus’ promise to not be afraid and to take courage because he has conquered the world.
As you light the second Advent candle this week, be reminded of the Prince of Peace who has come—His name is Jesus.
Prayer: Jesus, my life when focused on me is a battle. My life when focused on you is peace. I surrender my life to you and receive your peace. Amen.