Guarded by Peace

Opening Scripture

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7

Introduction

The peace of God is a gift that transcends human understanding. It guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus, offering security and calm amidst life’s uncertainties. In this Advent season, let us reflect on how prayer invites God’s peace to shield and transform us.

Reflection

Prayer is a sacred exchange where our worries are met with God’s peace. In moments of anxiety, it is the act of lifting our hearts to God that often brings profound calm. As Richard Foster wrote, “In prayer, real prayer, we begin to think God’s thoughts after Him: to desire the things He desires, to love the things He loves.” Through this communion, we find that God’s peace is not the absence of trouble but the presence of His unshakable care.

Tim Keller reminds us, “Worry is not believing God will get it right, and bitterness is believing God got it wrong.” Prayer confronts both worry and bitterness by helping us entrust our concerns to God, whose plans for us are good. Brother Roger of Taizé often spoke of the simplicity of trust in prayer: “Peace is not an external thing but a serenity of heart. It is given when we trust God fully.”

During this Advent season, as we await the Prince of Peace, may we allow prayer to quiet our fears and guard our hearts with the assurance of Christ’s presence.

Connection to Practice

• Journaling: Write about a time when prayer brought peace to a difficult situation in your life.

Question for Reflection

How has God’s peace transformed your heart and mind through prayer, especially in times of uncertainty?

Closing Prayer

Gracious Father,

Thank You for the gift of Your peace that transcends understanding. As I bring my worries to You in prayer, help me to trust in Your perfect plans and steadfast love. Guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus this Advent season, and fill me with the hope of His coming. Amen.

Additional Resources

*** Read : Prayer: Finding the Heart’s True Home by Richard Foster

*** Music: Taizé Chants: Wait for the Lord (YouTube Link)

*** Devotional app: Lectio 365

Deus Caritas Est