First Baptist Church of Herndon

Bits and Peaces

Linda Soller | Dec 16, 2019

Yes, I looked it up and peaces can be used to refer to different types of peace. Peace is a noun. And since the second advent candle is the peace candle, I thought we needed to take a closer look.  The angels came to the shepherds in the fields and sang out glory to God in the highest and on earth peace and goodwill toward men. Now that particular peace is a blessing. The angels were there to deliver great and glorious news. The shepherds were scared initially but calmed after a bit. This same scene is the subject of two familiar songs, “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear” and “Hark the Herald Angels Sing.”  

But how many Christmas songs include the word peace?  My research came up with 54 different titles. The peace in some is a bit different from the songs noted above. “Silent Night”, probably one of the most recognized Christmas songs, speaks to a different peace, a heavenly peace. One definition of peace is freedom from disturbance or tranquility.  This lullaby describes the calm and quiet and tranquil nature of that special night when Jesus was born. We may find ourselves telling our friends and family we just wish for a bit of peace and quiet. 

The version of the word peace we probably see used most in our everyday lives relates to the lack of war.

Or should I say the lack of peace is what we see most often? This peace exists when people are not fighting against each other for whatever reason. It can be hard to find these days. I can hear the song “Let there be Peace on Earth”, and let it begin with me. It can also begin with you. This is the peace we share in church, celebrating the lack of conflict.

A little peace here, a hint of peace there, and yet we keep seeking a bit of peace. Let peace in any form begin with you!

Be humble, be grateful, and be love in our world this week! :o) Linda