Peace: The Stillness Within
Advent’s second week invites us to focus on peace—a peace that transcends circumstances and anchors
us amid the chaos of life. As we light the second candle, we are reminded that the peace of Christ is
both a gift and a practice. It calls us to stillness, surrender, and trust, not only spiritually but also
psychologically.
From a therapeutic perspective, peace aligns closely with mindfulness—a state of present-moment
awareness that cultivates calm and reduces reactivity. The spiritual tradition of Christian contemplation
intersects beautifully with psychological practices like Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT),
offering a pathway to deeper stillness and wholeness.
Let’s explore how cultivating peace can transform both our spiritual and mental landscapes during this
Advent season.
The Psychology of Peace: Insights from Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy
MBCT is a therapeutic approach that integrates mindfulness practices to address anxiety, depression,
and stress. At its core, MBCT encourages individuals to observe their thoughts and feelings without
judgment, fostering an inner calm that allows for clearer decision-making and emotional regulation.
This mirrors Christian contemplative practices, where believers sit quietly in God’s presence, focusing on
His peace rather than their worries. Both approaches invite us to shift from striving to abiding,
cultivating a stillness that refreshes the soul.
As Psalm 46:10 reminds us: “Be still, and know that I am God.” This stillness isn’t passive; it’s an active
engagement with God’s presence, a surrender of control, and an opening of the heart to divine peace.
Practices for Cultivating Peace
Peace is not the absence of conflict but the presence of Christ in the midst of it. Below are practical
steps to integrate peace into your life, drawing from both MBCT and contemplative Christian traditions.
1. Breath Awareness
Mindful breathing calms the nervous system and grounds us in the present.
Practice:
Sit quietly and close your eyes.
Inhale deeply: “Come, Prince of Peace...”
Exhale slowly: “Bring stillness to my soul.”
Repeat for 5–10 minutes, allowing your breath to anchor you in God’s presence.
2. Lectio Divina with a Focus on Peace
This ancient practice of meditative Scripture reading helps to center your thoughts on God’s promises.
Practice:
Choose a verse about peace (e.g., John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.”).
Read it slowly, savoring each word.
Reflect: What is God saying to me through this verse?
Respond in prayer, asking for God’s peace to fill your heart.
3. The STOP Technique
This MBCT tool helps interrupt anxious thought spirals and refocus on the present.
Practice:
Stop: Pause what you’re doing.
Take a breath: Deeply inhale and exhale.
Observe: Notice your thoughts, emotions, and body sensations without judgment.
Proceed: Return to your task with a renewed sense of calm.
4. Contemplative Walking
Walking in silence can center your mind and body in God’s peace.
Practice:
Walk slowly and focus on your steps.
With each step, pray silently: “Lord, guide me in Your peace.”
Use the rhythm of walking to calm your spirit and reflect on God’s nearness.
Acknowledging the Struggle for Peace
Peace can feel elusive in the midst of life’s demands and anxieties. From a clinical perspective, it’s
normal to encounter resistance when cultivating stillness. Restlessness and worry are common, but they
are not insurmountable. Both MBCT and Christian contemplative practices teach us that peace is a
discipline—a process of returning again and again to the present moment and to God’s presence.
Peace in the Advent Story
The Advent narrative overflows with moments of profound peace. Mary’s surrender to God’s plan,
Joseph’s obedience despite uncertainty, and the angels’ proclamation of peace to the shepherds—all
point to a peace that transcends understanding.
For us, peace in Advent is both a gift and a calling. It invites us to step away from the noise of the world
and into the stillness of God’s presence. In this stillness, we find not only solace but also the strength to
navigate life’s challenges.
Reflection for the Week
When do you feel most at peace?
What barriers prevent you from experiencing stillness?
How can you invite God into the areas of your life that feel chaotic?
This week, dedicate time each day to cultivating peace. Whether through mindful breathing, meditative
Scripture reading, or contemplative prayer, remember that peace is not something you achieve—it’s
something you receive as you abide in God’s presence.
May the peace of Christ guard your heart and mind this week as you continue your Advent journey.
