In his book, Searching for and Maintaining Peace, French priest, Jacques Philippe writes the following:
Often, we cause ourselves to become agitated and disturbed by trying to resolve everything by ourselves, when it would be more efficacious to remain peacefully before the gaze of God and to allow Him to act and work in us with wisdom and power, which are infinitely superior to ours.[1]
In just a week or so final papers are due and final exams will be taken. Christmas is also quickly approaching. For some it is a season of great joy and for others, ambivalence about what or how to feel. Christmas is not necessarily the most wonderful time of the year. Yet even in the midst of these, our Lord Jesus offers us peace-His peace. This is what Father Phillippe is getting at.
This is not necessarily easy but it is possible. It is a reminder that we can’t do life alone. This includes writing papers and taking exams as well as navigating the various uncertain feelings that the holidays may bring. Our Lord Jesus wants to ground us with His peace.
So as you write, prepare for exams, or scurry from event to event; remember that Jesus is near offering peace. This peace may come in times of solitude. It may come by taking a nap in the midst of the hustle and bustle; by taking a walk or run in the brisk cold air. Jesus may offer you peace through your life giving relationships. It may come by feeling that He is very near. However, Jesus brings peace, it will come. The Prince of Peace surrounds you as you enter this season. And remember He won’t fail.
Dr. Elizabeth Pierre, November 2019
[1] Jacques Philippe, Searching for and Maintaining Peace: A Small Treatise on Peace of Heart, (New York, Editions des Beatitudes, 2002), 6.