The Passing Of The Peace?

In liturgical churches, this past Advent Sunday carried the theme of "Peace"-- a theme made ironic, and perhaps even confusing, in light of the recent experience of many Americans in these United States. While it is important to note that not all systems of justice are racist, we must acknowledge that the recent events in Missouri and New York have implied that Black lives are insignificant and expendable, that persons in law enforcement are free to act without regard to law, and that due process is not afforded to all communities.

In the midst of our prayers for justice and our outrage at the apparent prosperity of wickedness, God sent a clear word to Bronx Bethany Church of the Nazarene. Pastor Althea reminded us of our 'modus operandi' as Christians: We don't look at the storms. We look to our Lord who reigns above every storm and trial of life.

Our pastor reminded us of the tyranny of Herod, whose lust for power led him to kill his own sons as assurance that no one would usurp his throne. Upon hearing of the prophecy of a Messiah being born, Herod conducted a targeted act of infanticide. Every male child in his region aged two and under was killed. (see Matthew 2:16)

Then, and now, a question emerges: How do we conduct ourselves in the midst of so much chaos and despair? Pastor Althea gave us the answer at the start of Sunday's message: This is Advent... and Advent is a season of expectancy. We are anticipating that God will show up to save, heal, and deliver us.

Today, let's re-read the Isaiah passage that Pastor Althea referenced on Sunday. As we read, let us pray that God will remove disappointment from our hearts and reinstate excitement. It is Advent! This is the Advent of Peace! Our Lord will come to institute His shalom!

Lord God, we believe Your word. We anticipate Your advent. We experience Your peace.

Isaiah 40:1-11

Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her hard service has been completed, that her sin has been paid for, that she has received from the Lord’s hand double for all her sins.

A voice of one calling: “In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain. And the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all people will see it together. For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”

A voice says, “Cry out.” And I said, “What shall I cry?”

“All people are like grass, and all their faithfulness is like the flowers of the field. The grass withers and the flowers fall, because the breath of the Lord blows on them. Surely the people are grass. The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.”

You who bring good news to Zion, go up on a high mountain, You who bring good news to Jerusalem, lift up your voice with a shout, lift it up, do not be afraid; say to the towns of Judah, “Here is your God!”

See, the Sovereign Lord comes with power, and he rules with a mighty arm. See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him. He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.

All Scripture references are from The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.®Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.