Advent Week #4: PEACE

Prepare: Take a moment to center yourself for communion with God. You may do so by signifying the presence of the Spirit with you, singing a hymn, saying a prayer, or simply sitting in silence before God.

Candle: Light two purple candles, the pink candle, and then the third purple Candle, the candle of Peace.

Read: Matthew 2:1-12

Reflection: The journey to Bethlehem is an invitation for all people. So far, we’ve walked with Zechariah, Elizabeth, John, Mary, and Joseph. As Hebrews, they were shaped by the story of the Creator God and knew how the Holy Spirit would occasionally fill their ancestors (kings and prophets). But now they too had been filled and impacted by the Spirit—perhaps something new was happening.

Matthew records that Magi, non-Hebrews, began their journey to Bethlehem because they saw a star. For the Magi, this star meant that a new king was about to be born to the Jews. How did they know and why would they go to Bethlehem?

In Genesis 1, it says that the Spirit of God was hovering over creation. From the beginning, the Spirit was. Could it be that the same Spirit that filled John, that overshadowed Mary, and that allowed Zechariah to prophesy was now speaking to the Magi through the created constellation of stars?

The Magi were convinced something new was happening and they had to go. There was something or someone to discover. Can you imagine that in the study and searching of the night sky, these stargazers were given a revelation and abiding peace to make a long journey to worship a newborn king? The Holy Spirit was guiding them.

As you ponder this story, consider the following reflections:

Have you ever been surprised by the Holy Spirit? How did that surprise allow you to see something new about your life, your life with God, your life with others?
How does the Holy Spirit speak to you in creation? Why do you think that is?

The Magi were warned in a dream to not return to Herod. Have you experienced dreams that you would attribute to the Holy Spirit? How does the Spirit’s revelation provide peace and guidance?

Prayer: Come, Holy Spirit. I ask you to guide me with your peaceful presence. Speak to me through creation, through dreams, other people—however you wish. I long to experience an abiding peace that allows me to worship.

*Adapted from Common Ground Christian Church - Indianapolis, IN.

** Artwork by: Chris Magee