Peace is something we talk about often but it is so hard to find.  We struggle with peace within ourselves, peace in our relationships and peace throughout the world. Where in this world can we find peace?  Perhaps we find moments when we catch a glimpse of it either within ourselves or in the world and it draws us forward to pray and act for peace.

This glimpse of peace appears to be the focus of the writer of this text.  The psalmist reflects the experience of pilgrims who have recently arrived in Jerusalem.  They marvel at the city’s buildings and the unity they symbolize.  They pray for continued prosperity.

But is true peace really about prosperity or is it about a security that comes from living in harmony with our inner selves, with others and with all of creation?

Recently I visited a beautiful nature preserve.  The architects of this preserve had very carefully planned and planted so that there was less appearance of formal gardens and more appearance of the harmony that can be found in an untamed woods.  The whole preserve and the way visitors were welcomed into it was designed to draw people into an experience of peacefulness.  I spent three very peaceful hours strolling through this preserve. 

This Advent season, I would like to draw in more of the peaceful beauty of that nature experience.  I would like to find the places within myself where things need to be planted in a more harmonious way. I would like to trim away obstacles to relationships that need more peace.  I would like to be more conscientious in living out peacefulness, in care for the environment and in seeking ways to promote peace in those war weary places in the world.  With God’s help, I will start within my own walls.