DECEMBER 22 marks the fourth Sunday in Advent, when we reflect on the theme of peace.
Given the conflict we see in the world around us and recognising the worries and concerns that many carry today it is important for us to understand that we can know God’s presence and peace in our lives.
In the first chapter of John’s gospel there is a verse that says: “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.”
John is reminding us of the significance of the coming of Jesus, The Word. This is God acting decisively, setting in motion a plan that will come to completion through the death and resurrection of Jesus.
Read more: The story of ‘Silent Night’, a beloved Christmas carol born from faith and hope
Jesus walked this earth and experienced the tests, trials and turmoils of human existence and therefore can relate to that sense of a lack of peace that we might be carrying.
Embracing this promise can change our whole perspective on the life experiences that we have to deal with.
This Christmas season may we offer all that would make us anxious and uncertain to God and know the peace of the presence of the living Lord Jesus in our hearts, lives and experiences.
Rev Dr John Alderdice
President
Methodist Church In Ireland
