WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2
Isaiah 25 :6-10a; Psalm 23; Matthew 15:29-37
When I reflect on Jesus as the Prince of Peace, it always counterbalances the Pax Romana, or Roman peace, which encircled Jesus' life and demanded His death. In imperial Rome, peace was enforced through submission and suppression. Advent bids us to reflect on these two quite different and real experiences of peace.
Today's Psalm 23 begins with a deeply personal account of genuine peace: "The Lord is my shepherd." There is no generalization, just a steadfast conviction in the one who provides for every need. The water is pooled and is "restful" because sheep will not drink from running water. Neither will they eat or lie down if they are afraid. Not only this, but sheep also have no defenses - no fangs, no claws. They cannot outrun any predator. They rely on the shepherd's staff to guide them and their rod to protect them. Thoughtfully, the sheep are “led,” not driven. The psalm closes with the sheep "following" the voice of "goodness and kindness." Advent's invitation is to "dwell" in authentic peace - a place that has the power to encircle the "darkest valley."
Wayne Carmello-Harper
System Vice President, Mission Integration
Covenant Health
Pause
How can cultivating genuine peace accompany you through a "dark valley?" How might it shift your burdens?
Pray
God of the Universe, Creator of Light and Dark: You have formed us together as one body to proclaim Your peace. Draw us beyond our own narrowness to recognize Christ within ourselves and one another. Help us to choose unity - humility over pride and patience over anger. Make in us Your dwelling place, O God, that we may be worthy builders of Your Kingdom and true instruments of Your grace. Amen.