Advent slows us down. In the midst of crowded malls, busy calendars, and the rush toward Christmas, we light the second candle — the candle of peace. Its steady flame reminds us that peace is not the absence of noise, but the presence of something deeper. Advent whispers that true peace is not found in possessions or power, but in the presence of Christ.
One of the most memorable images of peace in storytelling comes from The Lord of the Rings. Before the great journey begins, Frodo and Sam walk through the Shire — green hills, quiet woods, the simple beauty of home. That peace is fragile, soon to be shattered by darkness. Yet even in the midst of battles and burdens, the memory of the Shire gives them strength. It’s a picture of peace that sustains, even when the world is falling apart.
But Advent tells us something greater: Jesus doesn’t just give us glimpses of peace to hold onto. He is our peace. He doesn’t simply remind us of what once was; He brings what we could never secure ourselves. As He said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives” (John 14:27). His peace is not fragile like the Shire, not fleeting like a quiet moment — it is eternal, unshakable, and strong enough to guard our hearts even in chaos.
Advent peace is the promise that in Christ, the storm does not have the final word. His presence is our calm, His love our anchor, His kingdom our home.
What do you think? Does Frodo’s longing for the Shire help you see the deeper peace Christ offers? Merry Christmas!
