|
Read: Psalm 122
I was glad when they said to me,
“Let us go to the house of the Lord!”
Psalm 122:1
I am struck by 2 things as I read this Psalm. The first thing is the joy of being summoned to gather together in the House of the Lord. Coming back together in one place after the many months of COVID isolation has indeed been a joyous reunion. And to be able to celebrate Advent together in this place makes this an extra special time. I find that I experience the anticipation of the birth of Jesus differently when I am gathered with others versus being in solitude.
The second thing that stands out to me is the call to pray for the peace of Jerusalem. This strikes a deep chord within me. I yearn for peace in these very troubled times in which we live. And I ask myself “What might peace look like in my life?” As I contemplated this question I found some possibilities that feel within my reach. What if peace in my life is exemplified by a commitment to understanding and celebrating and learning from difference? What if peace in my life is a commitment not to harm but ALSO to nurture all individuals and all of creation? What if peace in my life is portrayed by a sense of calmness and tranquility, most especially in the midst of turmoil and strife?
In this season of Advent, as we anticipate, prepare for, and wait for the coming of the Christ child, let us nurture those things which make for peace in our souls.
Calm me, O Lord, as You stilled the storm.
Still me, O Lord, keep me from harm.
Let all the tumult within me cease.
Enfold me, Lord, in Your peace.
~from Celtic Daily Prayers, Felgild Compline
~Nancy Flippin
| 
