Prince of Peace

Kelli Baker

Advent Series 2023

Day Twenty-Four

What threatens your peace? This week, another horrific racially motivated shooting occurred in our country. These acts of hatred and vitriol are becoming the norm in America. Just last week, there were two school related shootings in the next county over. I am afraid to send my kids to school in fear that they may not return home. “The angst that comes with a terrorist attack or random violence can knock us on our knees in fear because of the unpredictable, chaotic nature of such pain” (Neff and McMinn, 2020, p. 89). How do we contend with the fear that lingers in the midst of an unpredictable world?

Our hope is in Jesus. Before he was crucified, he told his disciples they would be left alone. One thing I love about Jesus is that he doesn’t just stop there. He said, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33). Our peace is found in Jesus, not in the things this world has to offer.

The world offers peace in many shapes and forms. When I deployed, I felt threatened unless I was carrying my weapon. We wouldn’t carry them on a daily basis because we were located on a small forward operating base (FOB) inside of a larger base. Only when we left the FOB did we take our weapons. I felt a heightened sense of fear the entire time I was on our FOB. The fear of being attacked always lingered in the back of my mind.

Jesus’ presence with us is all the peace we need. However, if we look outside of ourselves to what the world has to offer in search of peace we will be disappointed. We must stop and acknowledge the presence and power of the Holy Spirit within us and allow his peace to pervade us.

What fear is crippling you right now? Write it down and take it to Jesus. Tell him about it. Ask him to be near you in your fear. The fear may not go away, but we can have peace knowing our Prince of Peace is with us.

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank you for your promise of peace. When we feel afraid, remind us to look to Jesus for the peace we need. Amen.

References:

Neff, M. A., & McMinn, M. R. (2020). Embodying integration: A fresh look at Christianity in the therapy room. Downers Grove, IL: IVP.