Ellen Davis Campbell

Second Sunday in Advent: Peace

The second candle on the Advent wreath represents Peace. On the second Sunday of Advent, we remember Mary and Joseph’s journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Often called the “Bethlehem Candle,”  this second candle reminds us there might finally be peace on Earth - Jesus is coming, and so is his Kingdom of Peace!

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” — Matthew 11:28–30 

There was Jesus. 

So often we find ourselves waiting in anticipation — for a phone call, a test result, a package, a job offer, a positive pregnancy test, or an acceptance letter. Waiting can feel heavy, uncertain, and uncomfortable. Yet in that waiting, there is also an invitation if we allow ourselves to find it.  

Jesus calls to us: “Come to me.” When we allow ourselves to come to Him — to settle into His presence instead of our own impatience — we can find a peace that steadies our hearts. It’s hard to get there.  

This time of year, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. The lists, the plans, the parties, the pressures — they all compete for our attention. And for me, I know that temptation well. As I anxiously wait for the arrival of our baby boy, I find my mind racing with questions, preparations, and what-ifs. 

Then I think of Mary. We’ve got a lot in common these days.  

Mary didn’t have a due date, a doctor’s appointment, or a birth plan. She had no certainty about when or how her baby would arrive. All she could do was wait in discomfort and I’m sure fear— and trust. When everything else was out of her hands, she held onto prayer. 

Waiting can make us feel helpless — like we should be doing something. But maybe the most powerful thing we can do is pray. Pray for peace. Pray for grace. Pray for patience. Pray for His will to unfold in His perfect time. 

This Advent, as I sit in the waiting, I’m choosing to turn my anxious thoughts into prayers. To exchange striving for stillness. To let anticipation become adoration — for the One who makes it all possible. 

There was Jesus — in Mary’s waiting, in our waiting, and in every moment in between. He is the peace we long for, the promise we cling to, the King of kings and Lord of lords. 

Jesus, in my waiting, help me to find You and focus on you. Teach me to rest in Your promises and trust in Your timing always.  Turn my anxiety into peace and my anticipation into worship of heavenly host. This Advent, may my heart prepare room for You — King of Kings, Lord of Lords.  Amen. 

-Ellen Davis Campbell