From Anxiety to Peace

Focu Statement

In the midst of Advent’s deepening twilight,

Jesus offers us the gift of peace -

a peace that surpasses worldly understanding

and shines brightest in our darkest moments.

Point of Relation

As we navigate the twilight of Advent,

we can find parallels in Bella Swan’s journey in the Twilight series,

a popular novel series that captivated teens and adults alike.

These books offered an unexpected parallel to our Advent journey.

In these books, Bella finds herself caught between two worlds -

the ordinary human world and a hidden supernatural realm of vampires.

This struggle mirrors our own experience during the holiday season.

Just as Bella grapples with her identity and choices,

we often feel torn between the spiritual significance of Advent

and the overwhelming demands of holiday preparations.

We can feel the weight of expectations,

trying to create the perfect holiday experience while longing for peace.

In Twilight,

Bella ultimately finds strength in love and trust.

Similarly, we’re invited to trust in God’s promise of peace this Advent.

By acknowledging our anxieties and allowing Christ’s light to guide us,

we can journey through this season with hope and assurance.

Things to Consider

As Advent’s twilight deepens,

we often find ourselves caught in a whirlwind of holiday expectations.

Sometimes, our focus on creating the perfect Christmas experience

overshadows the very peace we seek.

Consider what may be clouding your path to peace this season:

Financial pressures often top the list,

from affording gifts to holiday meals.

The search for “perfect” presents can become a source of stress.

Beyond material concerns,

complicated family dynamics may cast shadows

over anticipated gatherings.

Amidst the festive atmosphere,

many grapple with loneliness or unmet expectations.

We may find ourselves overcommitted,

rushing from one event to another,

leaving little time for reflection.

As we navigate these challenges,

remember that true peace isn’t found in perfection or busyness,

but in quiet moments connecting with the divine presence Advent celebrates.

How might we create space for stillness amidst the holiday hustle?

What Scripture Says

As we journey through the deepening twilight of Advent, our Scripture passage illuminates the path before us.

In John 14:27, Jesus speaks to his disciples in the gathering dusk of his earthly ministry:

“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 be afraid.”

These words, like a candle flame in the encroaching darkness,

offer comfort and hope to disciples not finding the moment very comforting,

having just been told Jesus would soon die.

This peace Jesus speaks of is obviously the absence of conflict,

but a profound sense of wholeness and well-being, despite circumstances.

The Greek word used here,

eirēnē,

echoes the Hebrew concept of shalom—

a peace that permeates every aspect of our being.

It’s a peace that stands firm even as the shadows lengthen around us.

Our journey through Advent’s twilight finds further illumination in Luke 1:78-79. H

ere, John the Baptist’s dad, Zechariah, prophesies about the coming Messiah:

“Because of the tender mercy of our God,

by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven

to shine on those living in darkness

and in the shadow of death,

to guide our feet into the path of peace.”

This passage paints a vivid picture of Christ as the dawn breaking through our spiritual night,

guiding us towards true peace.

As we stand in this deepening twilight,

these Scriptures remind us that the darkness is not permanent.

The peace Christ offers serves as our guiding star,

leading us through the night towards the promised dawn of his coming.

What This Means for You

As we journey through Advent’s deepening twilight,

Christ’s peace beckons us. Create moments of stillness in your daily life -

through prayer or quiet reflection -

to experience this divine tranquility.

Consider how you might share this peace: a kind word,

a helping hand,

or simply being present for someone in need.

Identify what causes anxiety in your life and entrust these burdens to God.

Remember, embracing peace is an active choice,

one that can transform your heart and ripple outward,

touching those around you with Christ’s comforting presence.

What This Means for Us

As a community journeying through Advent’s deepening twilight,

we’re called to be bearers of Christ’s peace.

Together, we can create spaces of tranquility amidst the season’s chaos.

Let’s encourage one another to pause, reflect,

and reconnect with the source of true peace.

We might organize quiet prayer gatherings or community service projects that spread warmth and hope.

By supporting each other in laying down our anxieties and embracing God’s peace,

we become a beacon of light in our wider community.

As we move closer to Christmas,

let’s embody the peace we seek,

shining Christ’s light into the darkness around us. Amen? Amen.

Written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of Perplexity AI, based on a series developed by GNJUMC’s Breakthrough: https://breakthroughseries.org/.