Reflecting on Peace, Joy, Hope, and Love
As we gathered for our last morning service of the year, we took a moment to reflect on the four powerful themes of Advent: Peace, Joy, Hope, and Love. These are not just words for the Christmas season but gifts we carry as followers of Jesus every day of the year.
Our reflection was anchored in the beautiful and redemptive words of Romans 5:1-11 (NLT):
“Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us...”
This passage reminds us of the incredible work of Christ—bringing peace, joy, hope, and love into our lives through His life, death, and resurrection. Let’s explore these themes as they appear in the text:
Peace
“We have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us.” (Romans 5:1)
Through faith in Jesus, we are brought into peace with God—a peace that surpasses all understanding and guards our hearts and minds as we live in Christ (Philippians 4:7). This peace is not just the absence of conflict but a deep assurance of God’s presence and reconciliation in our lives.
Have you experienced this peace? Where has God’s peace met you this year?
Joy
“We confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.” (Romans 5:2)
Joy isn’t just happiness; it’s a supernatural strength that sustains us even in trials. As Nehemiah 8:10 reminds us, “The joy of the Lord is your strength!” This joy flows from our relationship with God and helps us rejoice, even in the face of challenges.
What brings you joy? When have you felt the joy of the Lord sustaining you?
Hope
“…our confident hope of salvation.” (Romans 5:5)
Hope anchors us, giving us strength to persevere. It’s rooted in God’s promises and the assurance of our salvation. This hope “will not lead to disappointment” because it is rooted in God’s faithfulness.
Take a moment to reflect on where you’ve seen hope in your life this year. How has God’s hope sustained you?
Love
“God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.” (Romans 5:8)
God’s love is at the heart of the Christmas story. As John 3:16 reminds us, “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son...” This love is vast, incomprehensible, and available to everyone.
How have you experienced God’s love this year? How can you reflect His love to others?
These Themes are for Every Season
Peace, joy, hope, and love aren’t just for Christmas—they are woven throughout scripture and are gifts we can carry into every moment of our lives. As we close this year, let’s ask ourselves:
Where have I seen God’s peace, joy, hope, and love in my life?
How can I share these gifts with others as we step into a new year?
We’d love to hear your stories of peace, joy, hope, and love. Whether it’s a moment of quiet assurance, an unexpected blessing, or a testimony of God’s faithfulness, your story can inspire and encourage others.
Here’s to carrying these gifts into 2025 and beyond. 💛
