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Peace

December 10, 2025

Amos 8:1-14|Psalm 38|Revelation 1:17–2:7|Matthew 23:1-12

The resonant words of Psalm 38:10, describing a heart in turmoil and strength faltering, often echo deeply within us, particularly when the world around us seems to demand joy. As the second week of Advent arrives, and we light the candle representing Peace, the paradox of seeking serenity amidst profound chaos becomes a palpable struggle for many.

How, indeed, do we discover that elusive peace when confronted with the raw grief of a job loss, the aching void of a loved one’s passing, or the agonizing uncertainty of a family member’s declining health, wondering if their presence will grace our Christmas table? Even the seemingly smaller, yet equally consuming, anxieties of searching for that perfect gift or the rare toy a child desperately desires can compound our burden, keeping us awake at night, obscuring the very peace Jesus promises.

This season, for me, carries a unique weight. It marks the anniversary of losing my beloved husband. This year brought another unexpected upheaval with the loss of my job, prompting a move to New York. Here,  I find myself dedicating time to caring for my parents, whose health has presented its own set of challenges. Yet, through these relentless shifts and trials, one unwavering constant has been my faith. It compels me to pause, to truly see the countless blessings woven into the fabric of my life, even as difficulties abound. I am cradled by the love and support of my family, and embraced by the spiritual family at St. Luke’s, where Christ’s love radiates and the Lord’s peace is a comforting, ever-present balm.

As we journey through this period of anticipation for the birth of Jesus, I encourage us all to intentionally step back from the clamor. Let us open our hearts and eyes to the quiet moments of grace that surround us. Perhaps you will find peace in the gentle descent of a winter snowfall, transforming the world into a hushed, pristine canvas. Maybe, amidst the rush of holiday shopping, a child’s unadulterated smile will reflect back to you the purest form of joy and peace. Or perhaps it will settle upon you as you simply share a meal with family, savoring the unspoken presence and connection. For many, the profound peace of Jesus can be found within the sanctuary of worship, whether in church or online, as sacred music washes over us.

Jesus’s peace is not a distant ideal, but a tangible presence all around us. We simply need to attune ourselves, to look beyond the chaos, and truly embrace these precious moments. It is not about finding the ‘perfect gift’ in the worldly sense, for Jesus has already bestowed upon us the ultimate, perfect gift: His boundless love and enduring peace.

Let us pray: Merciful God, who sent your prophets to proclaim repentance and prepare the way for our salvation: Grant us the grace to heed their warnings and turn from our sins, so that we may joyfully greet the coming of Jesus Christ our Redeemer; who lives and reigns with you in the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

May the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, be with you during this reflective and hopeful season.

Peace, 

Anna Pilkington