Advent is a season of profound anticipation and reflection within the Christian faith. It marks the beginning of the liturgical year and the four weeks leading up to Christmas. During this time, Christians around the world prepare their hearts and minds to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the Savior. Advent is not just a time for waiting; it is also a time for deep spiritual contemplation. One of the central themes of Advent is peace—peace that transcends understanding, peace that fills the heart, and peace that the world cannot give.
The Meaning of Advent
Advent, derived from the Latin word “adventus,” means “coming” or “arrival.” It is a period of preparation, not only for the celebration of Jesus’ birth but also for His second coming. The season is often associated with hope, love, joy, and peace, each represented by a candle in the Advent wreath. The candle of peace, typically lit on the second Sunday of Advent, serves as a reminder of the peace that Christ brings to the world—a peace that is not just the absence of conflict but the presence of something far more profound.
The Biblical Concept of Peace
The concept of peace in the Bible is rich and multifaceted. The Hebrew word for peace, “shalom,” encompasses more than just the absence of war or conflict. Shalom refers to a state of completeness, wholeness, and harmony. It is a peace that touches every aspect of life—relationships, community, and one’s inner self.
In the New Testament, the Greek word for peace, “eirene,” is often used. It carries similar connotations of harmony and tranquility. When the angels announced the birth of Jesus to the shepherds, they proclaimed, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men” (Luke 2:14). This declaration wasn’t just about the cessation of hostilities but about the arrival of a Savior who would restore harmony between God and humanity.
The Advent of Peace Through Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ is often referred to as the “Prince of Peace.” His coming into the world was the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise of peace. In the Old Testament, the prophet Isaiah foretold the birth of a child who would be called “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). This prophecy found its fulfillment in the birth of Jesus, who came to reconcile humanity with God and to establish a kingdom characterized by peace.
During Advent, Christians are reminded of the peace that Jesus brings—a peace that is both personal and communal. On a personal level, this peace is the assurance of God’s presence in our lives, even in the midst of turmoil. It is the calming of our fears and anxieties, knowing that God is in control. On a communal level, this peace is about living in harmony with others, fostering relationships that reflect the love and grace of God.
Peace in the Midst of Waiting
Advent is a season of waiting—waiting for the celebration of Christ’s first coming and anticipating His return. This waiting can be difficult, especially in a world that is often marked by unrest and uncertainty. However, the peace of Advent is not a passive peace; it is an active peace that sustains us in our waiting.
In a world that is constantly in motion, the peace of Advent invites us to slow down, to be still, and to reflect on the presence of God. It is in this stillness that we can truly experience the peace that Christ offers. As Psalm 46:10 reminds us, “Be still, and know that I am God.” This stillness is not just about physical quietness but about quieting our hearts and minds to focus on the presence of God.
The Role of Peace in the Christian Life
Peace is not just a theme for Advent; it is a central aspect of the Christian life. Jesus taught His disciples about the importance of peace, saying, “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). This peace is a gift from Jesus, a peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7).
As Christians, we are called to be peacemakers. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9). Being a peacemaker involves more than just avoiding conflict; it requires actively seeking to bring reconciliation and healing in a world that is often divided.
The peace of Advent challenges us to live out this calling in our daily lives. It calls us to forgive those who have wronged us, to seek reconciliation in broken relationships, and to be agents of peace in our communities. This is not an easy task, but it is one that is empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Peace in the Face of Adversity
The peace that Advent speaks of is not dependent on external circumstances. It is a peace that endures even in the face of adversity. The Apostle Paul, who faced numerous trials and hardships, wrote about this peace in his letter to the Philippians: “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:11-13).
Paul’s contentment was rooted in his trust in God. He knew that God’s peace was not dependent on his circumstances but on God’s unchanging character. This is the peace that Advent offers—a peace that remains steadfast even when the world around us is in turmoil.
see also: What Do the Candles in the Advent Wreath Represent?
The Promise of Eternal Peace
Advent also points us to the future, to the promise of eternal peace. The peace that we experience in this life is just a foretaste of the peace that is to come. The Bible speaks of a time when Jesus will return and establish His kingdom fully—a kingdom where there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain (Revelation 21:4). This is the ultimate fulfillment of the promise of peace.
As we wait for this day, we are called to live in the light of this promise. The peace of Advent is a reminder that no matter what we face in this life, we have a future hope that is secure in Christ. This hope gives us the strength to persevere and to continue being agents of peace in the world.
Conclusion
The season of Advent is a time of reflection, anticipation, and preparation. As we light the candle of peace, we are reminded of the profound peace that Jesus brings—a peace that is both personal and communal, a peace that sustains us in our waiting, a peace that calls us to be peacemakers, a peace that endures in the face of adversity, and a peace that points us to the promise of eternal peace.
In a world that is often marked by conflict and unrest, the peace of Advent is a powerful reminder of the hope we have in Christ. It is a peace that transcends understanding, a peace that fills our hearts and minds, and a peace that the world cannot give. As we journey through Advent, may we embrace this peace and allow it to transform our lives and the world around us.