“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”.
Gracious God, that first Christmas, over 2,000 years ago, a child was born who brought hope into our world. He understood the things in our lives that destroy our sense of peace and as He grew to be a man, He sought ways to restore our relationship with You, and with one another. He taught us to build communities rooted in equality and justice, compassion and understanding, mutual respect and forgiveness. His name was Jesus and He is the Prince of Peace. Lord God, as we move into the third week of Advent, help us to make the space to prepare to celebrate the birth of Your Son, Jesus Christ, remembering the message of hope he brought, as we journey to the manger and seek to follow Him. In His name, the name of Jesus we pray, let there be peace. Amen.