The night is long, and we wonder where our hope has gone. This Advent, as in every year, we wonder how things could have gone so dark. The hoped for lover is still a hope, so we band together, because guarding against the terrors that wait in the night makes us feel alone.
This second week of Advent, we reflect on peace. Where in theory, we might hope in solitude for the future relief we seek, peace requires more of us. Peace is possible only when we make it, in the grace and power of the Spirit. Peace is possible only when we join together in forgiveness and grace. Peace is possible only when we guard not against others but when we guard the things that matter for us all.
I have continued to read and reflect on Song of Songs to guide and inspire these Advent prayers. This week, chapters 3 and 4 are about the longing to end separation and delight in the beauty of the beloved once found. I hope to allow it to guide me toward reconciling separations and sharing beauty far and wide.
By these things, maybe we can find the peace God’s wisdom offers and make our world a place where people thrive in that peace.
Lord Jesus, in the darkness of this long night, we wait, yet you do not appear.
I will get up now and go about the city, through its streets and squares; I will search for the one my heart loves. When I find the one I seek, I will find peace.
When impatience grabs ahold of us, remind us of your timing, Lord. Help us recognize your face in the desert, to follow you and the sweet fragrance you bring, to offer our lives to guard against the terrors of the night.
I will get up now and go about the city, through its streets and squares; I will search for the one my heart loves. When I find the one I seek, I will find peace.
You are beautiful beyond compare, beyond description, yet we are compelled to try, to form the words to say how much we love you. May we share your beauty with all who have eyes to see.
Until the dawn arrives and the shadows flee, we praise you and worship with the best we have to offer. You are altogether beautiful.
I will get up now and go about the city, through its streets and squares; I will search for the one my heart loves. When I find the one I seek, I will find peace.
Our hearts belong to you. Our delight is you, and your love is better than wine.
You have given us the keys and called us to enter. You invited us to your sacred places. With goodness you fill the world you created and share it with us.
You are a garden spring, a well of fresh water flowing down to us and through us. May we awaken to your Spirit flowing through the garden to spread your peace across the land.
I will get up now and go about the city, through its streets and squares; I will search for the one my heart loves. When in love with you, we’re one. Our peace is you.
Come, Lord Jesus.
An Old Song with a New Dance 