When Peace Feels Impossible
Most of us can relate to feeling stressed, stretched thin, or worn down by life’s struggles. Advent reminds us that peace—true biblical shalom—is more than the absence of conflict. It’s wholeness and flourishing. Mary’s story helps us see this clearly. A young teenage girl, engaged and dreaming of her future, suddenly hears from Gabriel that everything in her life is about to change. This wasn’t peaceful news… at least not on the surface. And yet Mary is told: “The Lord is with you.”
Where in your life does peace feel out of reach right now?
How does Mary’s interruption help you reimagine what peace might look like?
“Do not be afraid, Mary… you have found favor with God.” — Luke 1:30
Jesus Came to Be Our Peace
Mary could experience peace not because her circumstances were calm, but because of the Child she would bear. Gabriel describes Jesus as the eternal King whose kingdom will never end. Through Him, we gain peace with God (Romans 5:1). Advent peace is rooted in His rule, not in our ability to control life. Every competing “kingdom”—self, power, possessions, pleasure, even religion—eventually collapses. Only Jesus’ kingdom endures. The way to peace is surrender to the true King.
What might God be inviting you to surrender so you can experience His peace?
How could living for Jesus’ kingdom reshape the stress, striving, or struggle in your week?
“He will reign… and of His kingdom there will be no end.” — Luke 1:33
Living With Peace Between the Advents
We live between Christ’s first coming and His return, where peace is ours but often challenged. Practices like simplicity and sabbath help us resist the overcommitment and overstimulation that steal peace. Peace comes not through conquest but surrender—entrusting our lives to the Prince of Peace. When we seek His kingdom first, we begin to live from His peace rather than our anxieties.
What practice this week could help you slow down and live in Jesus’ peace?
Who in your life needs to hear or see the peace Jesus offers?
“We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” — Romans 5:1