Good morning! I am delighted for you to hear from Dr. Ann Gipson. Dr. Gipson serves as Associate Professor of Piano and Director of Piano Pedagogy at TCU specializing in teaching piano pedagogy and group piano. She has been a part of the TCU family since 2005. We are grateful for her and her invitation this morning. –Rev. Katherine Wright
Advent – The Invitation to Seek Peace
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6
Throughout history there has been conflict, hostility, and turmoil. The daily news reminds us of chaos and conflict between nations and within governments. Closer to home, health concerns, financial worries, disagreements with friends and loved ones, conflicts with colleagues, and balancing all of life’s demands create internal turmoil. It is within this world of chaos and turmoil that Christ came to earth 2000 years ago, fulfilling ancient prophecy, as the Son of God and the Son of Man…the Prince of Peace. And during this season of Advent, we are invited to pause and shift our gaze to Christ, the One who comes to be our peace today.
While on earth, Jesus demonstrated His power as the Prince of Peace to His disciples. In the gospel of Mark, we are reminded of Jesus bringing peace to a stormy boat ride. While crossing the Sea of Galilee in a boat, Jesus and his disciples were caught in a powerful storm. The disciples, fearing for their lives, woke Jesus, who then commanded the wind and waves to be still, saying “Peace, be still.” With those words, the storm ceased, and all was calm. (Mark 4:39) Before leaving His disciples, Jesus promised to give us His peace allowing us to trust Him through life’s struggles. “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.” (John 14:27) And Paul reminds us that the Peace of God is so amazing and so powerful that it will transform the way we live. Because you belong to Christ Jesus, God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel. (Philippians 4:7 CEV)
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:6-7
So, why is peace so difficult to find? Why do we often feel overwhelmed with the cares of the day? Why do we let difficulties and challenges rob us of our joy, of peace that is actually promised by the Prince of Peace? Consider the quote by 19th-century pastor Robert Murray McCheyne who said, “Learn much of the Lord Jesus. For every look at yourself, take ten looks at Christ. He is altogether lovely.”
Where is our gaze, our focus this advent season? Is our focus on our circumstances, the difficulties, and the challenges we face? Do we lack peace because our gaze is not on the Prince of Peace, but on ourselves, our struggles and conflicts? If so, perhaps Christ is inviting us throughout this Advent to recalibrate our focus…to gaze and let our eyes linger on the One who can still the storms in our life, lift the burdens of our soul, and give us peace beyond all human comprehension. During this advent season, may we fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith (Heb 12:2) …the Prince of Peace.
“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.” 2 Thessalonians 3:16
Let us pray.
Almighty God, we come to you this morning readying ourselves to seek peace. During this season of Advent, may we pause in your presence and shift our gaze to Christ, the One who comes to be our peace today. Remind us to always keep our focus on you. We give thanks for all the ways you are with us. Amen