The Second Sunday of Advent marks a new stage in this period of spiritual preparation before Christmas. After the hope of the first Sunday, the emphasis is now on peace. On this day, the second candle in the Advent wreath is lit, often purple like the first, and is also called the "Candle of Peace". This light reminds us that Christmas is a time of peace and reconciliation, not only in the outside world but also in our personal and inner lives.
The meaning of peace in Advent
Peace is a central concept in the Christian message, and it takes on particular significance during Advent. First of all, it evokes the peace that Jesus brings to humanity through his birth. In biblical prophecies, particularly those of Isaiah, the Messiah is called the "Prince of Peace". The birth of Jesus is seen as the beginning of a new era of peace between God and humanity. So lighting the candle of peace is a symbolic act to invite this divine serenity into our daily lives.
But peace is not just an absence of conflict; it is also a state of wholeness, inner calm and reconciliation with oneself and others. It implies a readiness of heart and mind to live in harmony, to forgive, and to renounce quarrels and resentments. The Second Sunday of Advent invites believers to cultivate this inner peace by letting go of tensions and seeking serenity.
A call to reconciliation
The Second Sunday of Advent is often an opportunity to turn to others with a spirit of reconciliation. It's a time to reflect on conflicts, whether personal or family, and to consider reconnecting or repairing relationships. By lighting the peace candle, everyone is invited to examine the places in their lives where peace is lacking and to take action to restore it.
This may involve asking for forgiveness, offering help or simply reaching out to someone in need of a listening ear. It also encourages people to let go of judgements and grudges and to accept others' differences. Peace, in this sense, becomes a commitment, a promise of kindness towards ourselves and others.
Inner peace: a path to Christmas joy
Cultivating inner peace is essential to fully experiencing the joy of Christmas. This time of year can be intense, full of expectations and preparations, which can sometimes cause stress and tension. The Second Sunday of Advent is a precious reminder to take the time to slow down, breathe and refocus on what's essential. Inner peace, born of silence and meditation, is a way to regain calm and face Christmas with a soothed and open heart.
This journey towards inner peace also prepares us to welcome the third candle of Advent, that of Joy. By cultivating peace, we open ourselves to true joy, the kind that does not depend on circumstances but is rooted in the tranquillity of the soul.
Sharing peace around us
The Second Sunday of Advent also encourages us to become bearers of peace in those around us. It's about spreading this tranquillity through small gestures of friendship, kindness, and goodwill. Offering a kind word, helping someone without expecting anything in return, being patient and understanding towards others - these are all ways of spreading peace around us. It can be beneficial to establish moments of calm and meditation as a family, to do activities together that strengthen bonds, or simply to set aside moments of gratitude for the beautiful things and people around us.
The Second Sunday of Advent, with its candle of Peace, is a time for reflection and reconciliation. It invites us to make room for peace in our lives, to seek it within ourselves and to share it with those around us. It is a light that reminds us that the true spirit of Christmas lies not only in the festivities, but also in the tranquillity and forgiveness that open our hearts. By cultivating peace in our lives, we prepare ourselves to welcome Christmas with serenity and make it a true moment of harmony and shared joy.
