Advent 2025 - Week 2: Preparing with Peace
Sunday, December 7 - Peace in the Midst of Fear
Scripture: Luke 2:8-10
“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.’”
Reflection: What began as a terrifying night for the shepherds became a night of amazement and joy. Peace is often proclaimed in moments of fear and chaos. Notice that God’s peace came first as a message, not as a circumstance. Today, reflect on your own fears—what anxieties feel loudest in your life? Let the angel’s words sink in: do not be afraid.
Questions:
- Where are the moments in your life today that feel frightening or uncertain?
- How might God be speaking calm into those fears?
Practice: Spend a few quiet minutes with God. Invite His presence into areas of fear or anxiety. Simply say, “Lord, do not let fear rule me; bring your peace.”
Monday, December 8 - The Quiet Arrival of Peace
Scripture: Luke 2:11-12“Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Reflection: Peace often starts small, humble, and unexpected. The shepherds were given a sign: a baby in a manger. God’s peace is not flashy or contingent on the perfect conditions—it is a quiet, enduring presence. Where in your life might God’s small, persistent peace be waiting for you to notice it?
Questions:
- How is God inviting you to recognize His peace in the small or unexpected moments?
- Are there areas in your life where you are overlooking God’s calm presence?
Practice: Take 10–15 minutes today to quietly notice the small blessings or gifts in your day. Offer thanks for each one, acknowledging God’s peace in the ordinary.
Tuesday, December 9 - Peace That Ripples Outward
Scripture: Luke 2:13-14“Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.’”
Reflection: Peace isn’t just an inner feeling; it has outward effects. The heavenly host praised God and proclaimed peace for the world. God’s favor rests not just within us but flows outward. As you experience His peace, consider how it can shape your words, actions, and presence in your relationships and community.
Questions:
- How can your experience of God’s peace ripple outward to others today?
- Who might need a reflection of Christ’s peace through you?
Wednesday, December 10 - Letting Peace Lead
Scripture: Colossians 3:15“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace.”
Reflection: Peace is not simply the absence of anxiety; it is Christ ruling in our hearts. Anxiety will come, but letting His peace “call the shots” is a conscious, daily choice. Ask yourself whether fear or worry is directing your thoughts and actions. Invite Christ’s peace to lead instead.
Questions:
- In what areas of your heart or mind is fear taking the lead?
- How might letting Christ’s peace rule change your responses today?
Thursday, December 11 - The Surrender That Brings Peace
Scripture: Philippians 4:6-7“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Reflection: Peace is cultivated through surrender. Letting go of control allows the Spirit to bring calm to our souls. We often chase temporary peace or rely on our own strategies. Today, consider what you are holding tightly and how you might surrender it to God.
Questions:
- What are you holding on to that blocks Christ’s peace in your heart?
- How can you release control to God today?
Friday, December 12 - A Peace the World Cannot Give
Scripture: John 14:27“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
Reflection: Jesus’ peace is unlike anything the world offers. It is steady, enduring, and independent of circumstances. Even in the midst of chaos, His peace remains. Let today be an opportunity to notice how His peace is present despite challenges.
Questions:
- How does Christ’s peace differ from the temporary peace you might chase elsewhere?
- Where can you intentionally practice resting in His enduring peace?
Saturday, December 13 - Living as a Person of Peace
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 13:11“Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.”
Reflection: Peace grows as we surrender, rest, and share it with others. As you conclude this week, reflect on ways you can cultivate a life where Christ’s peace rules and flows through you into the world. Remember, peace is both a gift and a practice.
Questions:
- How have you experienced Christ’s peace this week?
- How might you extend that peace to others in the coming week?
Practice: Spend extended quiet time with God. Ask, “Father, what do I need to surrender to You?” Write down anything that arises, and offer it into His care. Consider sharing one act of peace with someone else tomorrow.
Bonus Resources:
- Podcast: Ocean of Peace, featuring John Mark Comer
- Reading Plan: YouVersion Advent Reading Plan: Peace with John Mark Comer
- Song: “I See the Birds” by Jon Guerra
Series:
- Week 1: Preparing with Hope
- Week 2: Preparing with Peace
- Week 3: Preparing with Joy
- Week 4: Preparing with Love
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