Advent Devotional - Day 9

Monday, December 7
Proverbs 16:7

When I was young, I went through a major peace sign phase (who can understand the loves of a middle schooler?). I had peace sign clothes, accessories, and decorations in my bedroom. It became my thing. As a college student I was still receiving peace sign gifts even though the phase had ended.

At the time I put little thought into the meaning of the peace sign. I mostly liked it because it looked cool and came in lots of bright colors.

Fun fact: the peace sign was originally designed for the British nuclear disarmament movement.

This symbol that was created for a highly specific group with a clear goal somehow spread to every corner of the world, including little girls’ fashion. I think the popularity of the peace sign can be attributed, at least in part, to the human desire for what it represents. Humans were created with a deep desire for the absence of conflict and the presence of reconciliation.

We don’t want broken relationships. We don’t want war. We don’t want to fight on the internet. But our distance from God makes it easier for us to get caught up in conflict at every turn. Our distance from God leaves space for shame, insecurity, and anger to grow.

This Proverb reminds us that we will experience peace when we are living according to God’s plan. Following God’s commands and living according to Jesus’ teachings are essential to maintaining peace with our family, friends, community, and world.

This Advent we have an opportunity to close the gap between us and God. We can draw near to God in prayer and spend time in scripture trusting that our faithfulness will produce peace.

Maybe I’ll even dig out some of my middle school decor as a reminder.

Reflection by Denee Bowers