Let me hear what God the LORD will speak, for he will speak peace to his people, to his faithful, to those who turn to him in their hearts. Surely his salvation is at hand for those who fear him, that his glory may dwell in our land. Steadfast love and faithfulness will meet; righteousness and peace will kiss each other. Faithfulness will spring up from the ground, and righteousness will look down from the sky. The LORD will give what is good, and our land will yield its increase. Righteousness will go before him, and will make a path for his steps. Psalm 85: 8-13
When we light the candle of peace, we must remember that the biblical concept of peace goes far beyond just the cessation of war. Rather, peace is a condition of well-being, of being that reflects the image of God in humanity (and in all of God's creation), of being marked by love.
As the psalmist in the passage above so beautifully writes, when "God speaks peace to his people. . . righteousness and peace will kiss each other. . ." The peace we are called to witness by lighting the second candle of Advent should be something as loving, intimate, and gentle as a kiss. It is, at the very same time, a reflection not only of peace but of righteousness -- of being right with God.
Therefore, as we follow God's path, we are being called to be active, effective peacemakers. Who is it in your world that needs peace today? (Maybe even you?!) Now go and bring that person an Advent gift of God's grace.
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Grace to You and Peace
As the world spins out of control
Grace to you and peace
Vanity overwhelms
Grace to you and peace
Strength betrays and power corrupts
Grace to you and peace
Patience wanes and cries go unheard
Grace to you and peace
Pride turns inward and bitter
Grace to you and peace
News wears us down
Grace to you and peace
….
Grace to you
And peace