“They shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks; one nation shall not raise the sword against another, nor shall they train for war again.” -Isaiah 2:4
Blessed Advent! Last week, on the feast of Christ the King, we talked about the Virtues of the Kingdom of Christ. This year during Advent, I want to take a look at one virtue that has a theme in our readings each Sunday. This Sunday, let’s focus on peace. Having peace doesn’t mean that we don’t experience problems and challenges; it means that we remain serene and have an inner sense of calm whether it is a perfect day, or the world throws us curve balls, or we are seriously tested by difficulties and struggles.
It might seem selfish to some to focus on our own peace, but it is in fact a work of mercy for ourselves and others when we strive to create peace in our own hearts. We cannot give others what we do not ourselves possess. When we have received peace from Christ, we can bring a peaceful countenance to our interactions with others. We can be the bearer of God’s peace to the world. Renowned spiritual director and author Fr. Jacques Philippe wrote, “The more our soul is peaceful and tranquil, the more God is reflected in it, the more His image expresses itself in us, the more His grace acts through us.”
“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.” – John 14:27
Lord, please bless me with Your peace this Advent. Let it permeate me so that I can carry your peace to all who encounter me.
Suggested Prayer for growing in God’s peace: Prayer of St. Francis
Suggested Reading: Searching for and Maintaining Peace: A Small Treatise on Peace of Heart by Fr. Jacques Philippe