Roy’s Ramblings

This Sunday is the second Sunday in Advent and is the Sunday of Peace. Webster defines peace as: freedom from disturbance; tranquility. So with that definition in mind … when was the last time you truly had peace? No one, and nothing bothering you … nothing nagging you in your brain … nothing haunting you on your to do list … pure – undisturbed – tranquility??

Yeah, I can’t remember such a time either. So why do we have a Sunday of Peace? If in our world and especially in our time there is no such thing? Don’t get me wrong – I know that in other parts of the world it is much worse – there is actual war – there are people fleeing from danger just to stay alive – there are even folks who are barely making ends meet that are truly worried about their next meal – or a roof over their heads – or warm enough clothes to fight off the bitter cold. There is a system in place that keeps certain groups in poverty and in their place (but that is topic for another time and another discussion).

So what about this peace stuff? Well, I look at it almost like I look at my giving to the church. We are called to be at peace – Jesus came to give us peace – the Angels sang and proclaimed peace – but we aren’t at peace all the time (until the end of time). Same goes with tithing. The Bible calls us to tithe, Jesus told us to give to Cesar what is Cesar’s and to God what is God’s – but many of us can’t do that. So instead of 10% we give 1 or 2 %. Maybe peace is the same way? We can’t be truly at peace all of the time – so we just need to try to find peace when we can and work harder to expand that time – or – maybe we need to help others find peace in a world where peace isn’t so common.  (Just like some who are much more financially comfortable give more than 10% as their tithe/giving)

I struggle with peace – finding it – allowing it – flowing with it – acknowledging it. But, I know that it is important … and so I continue to work toward it. And I pray you all find peace sometime, somewhere. <SIGH> We all have our struggles, we all have our growing edges. Let’s keep working on toward our goals in life.

Blessings to All –  Pastor Roy