Season of Advent: Peace, Day 4

Season of Advent: Peace, Day 4

Reading:

“Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth; I have not come to bring peace, but a sword.”[1]

Reflection:

In war, peace comes when one side surrenders to the other. In business, peace may come through consensus where competing sides find a resolution that includes some elements of importance for all parties. In families, peace too often only comes through submission to the one in power, usually the father-figure. Each of these earthly expressions of peace require many souls to give up something of importance to them. And those types of peace can only be maintained by violence, either real or threatened. The peace achieved in this way is not peace at all because everyone is forever seeking opportunities to regain what they’ve lost. They have only stopped fighting as they await an opportunity to escape the oppression of or to usurp the one in power

            A true, lasting peace is so much more than simply the cessation of overt violence. It is only attainable when everyone involved is content with the current state of affairs. It requires just, fair, sustainable, and non-violent resolutions to conflict.

            The peace modeled by the life and teachings of Jesus is based on achieving justice, fairness, and sustainability for all, especially for and inclusive of those on the margins of society.

Closing Meditation:

Silently reflect on Jesus’ words, “I have not come to bring peace, but a sword.”

What could he possibly be saying to us?

Journal the thoughts and feelings that arise.

This daily series, Contemplative Christmas, is replacing my weekly Life Notes until January 6, 2025, when my weekly blog will resume. The thoughts expressed here are mine. To engage with me: ghildenbrand@outlook.com.

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[1] Matthew 10:34