Press the play button to watch the video above or press 'more' to read the transcript of the daily devotion below. Please read 1 Thessalonians 4:9-12 (use your own Bible or use the link above to access the in-App Bible).

‘But we urge you, beloved, to do so more and more, to aspire to live quietly, to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we directed you’

1 Thessalonians 4:10b-11

In September, nations worldwide gathered for the United Nations General Assembly's 2024 session, and the focus on advancing peace, sustainable development, and human dignity took centre stage. The ‘Pact for the Future’ called for commitments to make the world more peaceful, sustainable, and inclusive. Yet, amidst these global efforts, conflict and unrest persist, spilling beyond borders and affecting countless lives. In this context, the words of the Apostle Paul to the Thessalonians resonate with profound urgency.

Paul's exhortation calls for quiet dignity in the ordinary tasks of life. It is not merely a warning against isolation but a divine invitation to embrace harmonious living by centring our hearts on our unique calling. Echoing this wisdom, Jesus proclaimed love, forgiveness, and reconciliation as pathways to peace. These values are universally resonant, transcending cultures and boundaries and inviting everyone into a shared community of faith and hope.

Over two millennia have passed since Jesus' birth, yet the struggle for peace—both internal and external—remains a testament to its enduring nature. The challenge of embodying love within and around us has not diminished. In his book ‘Mere Christianity’ C.S. Lewis gently reminds us that without Christ ‘hope may appear as a distant glimpse, a fleeting shadow. Yet, with Christ, our hope transforms into a steadfast and radiant light that shines within each of us.’ We still wrestle with embracing Christ's peace—a peace that doesn't merely advocate the absence of conflict but the presence of justice, love, and a tranquil spirit amidst life's trials.

Envision a world united in this divine cause during Advent as we celebrate and honour Jesus' miraculous birth. Picture a realm where boundaries dissolve, where denominations, races, ethnicities, classes, and religions no longer divide us.

Herein lies the challenge and joy of Advent: to make the birth of Christ the cornerstone of peace. Let this time of waiting be a transformative journey towards living out the peace of Christ in a world that so desperately needs it. In leading quiet, sincere lives, the path to peace, though strewn with challenges, becomes more evident, a testament that, indeed, in Christ, lies the true essence of peace. Amen.

The Revd Cornelius Ashgar, Assistant Curate, St Laurence’s & St Peter’s, Chorley.