Embracing Wholeness
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.”
John 14:27
Throughout this week, a recurring theme has caught my attention—the concept of wholeness or completeness. What does it truly mean to be whole?
The candle we light for the Second Sunday of Advent symbolizes peace. I discovered that the Hebrew term for peace, Shalom, signifies more than just the absence of conflict; it embodies a richer meaning, embracing well-being, restoration, and reconciliation. Shalom peace restores us to wholeness, not only internally but also in our connections with others and with God.
Another word in scripture connected to fullness or completeness is the word seven. In the Bible, the seventh day marked the occasion of God's rest. Life's demands can pull us in various directions, causing us to feel misaligned by our own actions or external influences and leaving us restless. However, God calls us to the same rest so that we can be filled and made whole.
Reflecting on the Gospel of Luke this week, what resonates with me is that Jesus often withdrew from the crowd to a deserted place to pray and connect with the Father.
“He would withdraw to deserted places to pray.” - Luke 5:16
Whether you're managing children, caring for aging parents, or the juggling multiple responsibilities of life, when and where do we intentionally carve out that sacred space to return to wholeness, to recuperate, and to rest in God? For me, peace is intricately tied to resting securely in the embrace of God.
Jesus was sent to bring peace to our broken humanity and restore us to a state of wholeness. This Advent, let's be reminded of the gift of peace freely given by God out of love for us. May this season be a time of restoration for ourselves, reconciliation with others, and a reflection on the Holy Family's arrival in Bethlehem—an anticipation of the King of Peace entering our hearts.
