“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.”
— John 14:27 

Entering the Season of Peace

There is something beautifully festive about this Christmas season — a sense of warmth, family, and togetherness.
As we gather, we bring with us the peace we’ve cultivated, the love we carry, and the community we create together.

This second week of Advent invites us into the sacred theme of peace.
Peace not as something we wait for — but something we practice.

Before anything else, it is important to remember this truth:

God loves you — unconditionally — just as you are.
There is nothing to prove.
Nothing to earn.
Nothing to become before being worthy.

God knows us, accepts us, and hears every prayer.
That is our comfort.

Peace in the Midst of the Season

The holiday season can stir many emotions.
For some, it is joyful and celebratory.
For others, it can feel overwhelming, lonely, or chaotic.

Some are celebrating.
Some are struggling.
And many of us experience both — sometimes at the same time.

Wherever you are on your journey, know this: you are not alone.
God is present, active, and moving in your life — even when it doesn’t feel that way.

Amid the hustle and bustle — the lights, the music, the gatherings — God does not leave us.
Even when tradition feels heavy or memories feel tender, God is our comfort.

Peace Is Not Later — It Is Now

Many of us believe peace will come after something changes:

• After the shopping is done
• After the conflict passes
• After the season ends

But peace is not a reward for surviving chaos.
Peace is a practice in the present moment.

God is not “out there” waiting for circumstances to improve.
God is here — now.

Peace is not the absence of conflict.
Peace is the presence of God within us.

Choosing Peace in Everyday Moments

Peace is often tested in the smallest moments —
in traffic, in long lines, in crowded schedules, in family dynamics.

We notice our impatience. Our judgments. Our expectations. And yet, these moments are invitations — invitations to remember who we are. 

As Scripture reminds us:

“Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this house.’” — Luke 10:5
Peace is something we bring with us.

Look at your neighbor and say it quietly or aloud in your heart:
Peace begins with me.

Because it does.

The Birth Story as a Guide

The story of the birth of Jesus was not one of ease or certainty.
Mary and Joseph faced confusion, judgment, and unexpected circumstances.

And yet — scripture paints a picture of stillness, trust, and divine order.

Jesus is known as the Prince of Peace, born into uncertainty and simplicity.
His story reminds us that peace is not dependent on conditions being perfect.

We, too, may be birthing something new this season —
a new way of being, a new understanding, a new chapter.

And like Mary and Joseph, we are invited to move forward with trust.

Peace Begins Within

Scripture offers this wisdom:

“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” — Romans 12:18
Peace in the world begins in our communities.
Peace in our communities begins in our families.
Peace in our families begins within us.

It always begins with us.

When the outer world feels chaotic, we return to center.
We breathe.
We remember.
We allow God’s presence to restore our inner stillness.

Affirmation for the Week

Let these words settle into your heart:

✨ Peace in our world begins with peace in our hearts and minds.

Closing Prayer

God, thank You for Your presence here today.
Thank You for the gift of peace —
for reminding us that You are our stillness in every storm.

As we move through this Advent season,
help us to be peace,
to carry peace,
and to choose peace in every situation.

We are grateful for Your love,
Your guidance,
and Your abiding presence in our lives.

Amen.

Sunday Message — December 07, 2025
Rev. Lori Souza