Advent Community Guide - Week 2
Week 2: Waiting for Peace
Start with Prayer
Introduction
Week 2 is all about Peace. Peace, or shalom in Hebrew, is about more than the absence of strife, noise, or division. Peace is the presence of God, and is the result of his righteous rule. Of course, we all know that our world is filled with fighting, betrayal, and distraction. Sometimes it seems like God’s shalom is far away. The goal of Week 2 is to consider what the peace of God looks like in our world, and to ask God to teach us how to grab hold of it.
Candle Lighting
Have someone light the first then the second candles of Advent. This second flame represents the light of peace, and its burning is a reminder to trust God for his shalom.
Have two people each read one of the Scriptures:
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” John 14v27
“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” Isaiah 26v3
Discussion
● How would you define peace in your current circumstances?
● What keeps us from experiencing God’s peace?
Practice
Sit in silence for five minutes, reflecting on Jesus’s statement, “Peace I leave with you.” Ask God to speak to you in that stillness. Write down any impressions you have.
Reflection Questions
How does trusting God’s timing bring peace? If willing, share some of the impressions or thoughts you had during the Practice.
Where do you see glimpses of peace breaking through in your life?
Close with Final Prayer
“Almighty God, bring peace to our hearts and minds as we await the fulfillment of your promises. Grant us the stillness to rest in your presence and the trust to know you are working all things for good. Amen.” (Adapted from the Book of Common Prayer)
Keep the Candles lit until everyone leaves
