Second Sunday of Advent: Peace

Advent

For a Christmas story, the birth of Jesus, that brings so much joy and hope it is interesting that in its initial announcements to the main people in the story, the joyful news is preceded with the words “Do Not Be Afraid”. Zechariah, Mary, Joseph and finally the Shepherds all get the same words in their opening dialogues with the Angels. The Promise of Peace is there for us. But what is this Peace that is being offered? For one thing it is not always how we picture it!

Scripture Passage(s): Luke 2:8-14, Philippians 4:7, Romans 15:13

Respond:

• Re-read one of the narratives surrounding the birth of Jesus: Zechariah (Luke 1:11-25), Joseph (Matthew 1:18-25), Mary (Luke 1:26-38), and the Shepherds (Luke 2:8-14). Take notice of the scene, their reactions and the exhortation from the angels “do not be afraid”. What do you see? What details stick out?

• When we look at the biblical witness, we find stories of men and women that continually experience fear and anxiety within circumstances out of their control. Times of suffering and brokenness is a common thread for God’s people. “There are no exceptions even for Jesus”, notes Paul Racine. What has your experience of fear and anxiety look like in your life? How might you distinguish between trusting in a change of circumstance and trusting in God?

• When have you experienced God’s nearness in a particularly trying time. What happened? What scripture comes to mind? Or perhaps a biblical story. Take time sharing and giving praise.

• Jesus, prayed the lament of Psalm 22 on the cross. Choose a portion of the Psalm (verses 1-21 petition, verses 22-31 praise and thanksgiving) and put it into your own words.

• Read Psalm 22 as a closing prayer together (or pray Psalm 22 in your own words)