Becoming a Man of Peace: The Second Sunday of Advent

Becoming a Man of PeaceL: — Becoming a Man of Peace: The Second Sunday of Advent

The Second Sunday of Advent: Embracing Peacemaking as a Man of God

Advent is when we look forward to celebrating the birth of Jesus. It’s a chance to think about what His arrival means and the wonderful gifts He brings to our lives. During the second week of Advent, we focus on peace, symbolized by lighting the Peace Candle. This candle, the second one lit in the Advent wreath, represents the peace that Jesus brings. Today, I want to encourage the guys reading this to consider how they can be peacemakers.

For many, Christmas can feel more stressful than peaceful. With family gatherings, shopping for gifts, holiday parties, and church events, it’s easy to lose sight of what the season is all about. But lighting the second candle reminds us to take a step back, reflect, and remember that Jesus promises us peace, and He embodies that peace (Ephesians 2:14).

Throughout the Bible, Jesus emphasizes the importance of peace. In John 14:27, He says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.” A point often overlooked is this peace isn’t just for specific moments; it’s a transformative force that stays with us no matter what we’re going through, filling us with hope and optimism.

Let’s Explore the Three Types of Peace

1. Inner Peace: It is important to realize that the peace Jesus gives us goes deep into our hearts. When life gets tough, this inner peace helps keep us steady. Many people think success means having lots of money or status, but those things don’t bring real peace. However, true peace comes from a personal relationship with Christ, which makes us feel calm and content no matter what’s happening around us.

2. Peace in Relationships: Jesus also encourages us to create peace. Men often lead in their families and jobs, which means it’s vital to help create a peaceful environment. Whether resolving a disagreement with a friend, communicating openly with a spouse, or handling conflicts at work, Jesus teaches us to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9). When we approach others with restrained strength, understanding, and a desire for harmony, our relationships grow stronger.

3. Peace with God: The most important part of Advent is understanding how Jesus reconnects us with God. He came to heal the broken relationship between us and our Creator. This peace gives us freedom from guilt and shame. For men, grasping this divine peace is essential. It boosts our confidence and encourages us to stand firm in our faith, knowing that God loves and accepts us.

The Role of Men as Peacemakers

To be sure, men are not just receivers of peace; they are meant to be its guardians. It is important to realize we are called to be peacemakers in their homes and communities by embracing Christ’s peace. As peacemakers, men are responsible for maintaining peace, resolving conflicts, and fostering a peaceful environment. This peace isn’t just about avoiding problems; it’s about having the moral courage to help create a place where peace can flourish.

1. Leading by Example: In a world that often praises aggression, knowing how to manage conflicts peacefully is essential and can make a big difference in your home, community, and work. As men, we can be powerful role models for peacemaking. Being morally strong, calm, patient, and respectful in our interactions, we set a positive example for others, especially our children. When we work to calm down disputes and settle disagreements, we create a ripple effect that inspires those around us.

Being a peacemaker is more than just looking calm on the outside. It’s about having open conversations and building strong relationships. Men often try to be tough and hold in their feelings, but keeping communication open can help clear up misunderstandings and strengthen connections. Whether having deep talks with family or addressing challenging issues at work, valuing open and honest conversation is key to keeping the peace and feeling connected and understood.

3. Resolving Conflict: Every relationship has conflicts, and knowing how to handle them well is essential for maintaining peace. Jesus teaches us to deal with problems with love and respect, not anger. Even when it’s hard, practicing forgiveness and compassion is essential for a man who wants to promote peace.

Peace and Resilience

One of the most important aspects of Christ’s peace is its connection to resilience. Resilience is the ability to bounce back from tough times, which is especially important for men who feel pressure to be strong and tough.

1. Peace as a Source of Resilience: The peace Jesus gives us helps us handle challenges better. When we have inner peace, we build emotional and spiritual strength that helps us cope during hard times. This resilience allows us to face life’s difficulties without being overwhelmed.

2. Staying Calm in Crisis: Jesus’s peace helps us remain calm in stressful situations. As men, we might find ourselves in situations where we must think clearly while dealing with challenging problems. The inner peace that Christ offers allows us to think critically, act, and lead others through tough times, turning chaos into opportunities for growth.

3. Hope Boosting Resilience: Leaning into the peace of Christ gives us hope and optimism. Hope is key to resilience, encouraging us to keep moving forward. Hebrews 6:19 says, “that hope is like an anchor for our soul.” Trusting in God’s promises helps us face uncertainty confidently, knowing His peace supports us.

Practical Steps for Men to Embrace Peace and Resilience

As we reflect on the second Sunday of Advent, here are some practical steps men can take to build peace in themselves and their surroundings:

1. Prioritize Quiet Time: Set aside time for yourself to think and reflect. This could be through prayer, devotional bible reading, meditation, or simply enjoying nature. These quiet moments help you connect with God and are essential for finding inner peace.

2. Embrace Vulnerability: Understand that asking for help or sharing your struggles is not a sign of weakness. It helps build stronger connections and promotes peace. Don’t hesitate to contact trusted friends or mentors when you need support.

3. Develop Conflict Resolution Skills: Learn how to handle conflicts positively. In other words, effective communication, active listening, and expressing your feelings appropriately can strengthen your relationships and help calm tense situations.

4. Promote a Peaceful Environment: Look for places where negativity might arise—at home, work, or social settings. This could mean setting aside time for family activities or resolving conflicts calmly at home. It could involve fostering a culture of respect and open communication at work. It might mean being mindful of your words and actions in social settings. Work to create a friendly atmosphere that encourages positivity and understanding, leading to conversations that help maintain peace.

Conclusion:

As Christians celebrate the second Sunday of Advent by lighting the Peace Candle, remember this is a call for men to take on their roles as peacekeepers. Embrace the peace of Jesus, recognize how important it is, and share it with others.

Finally, In a world full of conflict and chaos, strive to be the man who stands firm in his faith, shows strength through self-control, seeks peace, and demonstrates resilience in every part of life. By doing this, we honor the spirit of Advent and improve our relationships and communities, creating real change. In light of what you have read today, I challenge you to take on this challenge with hope, knowing that the peace of Christ lays the groundwork for lasting peace.