The fourth and final Sunday of Advent in 2021 will be this Sunday, December 19th. Advent is the season in which we eagerly anticipate the celebration of Christ’s birth. On this Sunday, we celebrate the peace that Jesus brings to our hearts and our world.
This week, we focus our hearts on the “Lord of peace” who came down from heaven in the form of a baby. We live lives lived with fear, anxiety and worry, all trying to steal the joy we have just celebrated. God gives us the gift of peace so we can live joy-filled lives!
This year, we have all faced so much chaos and uncertainty, so much to fear, and to worry about. God’s peace is something we need to grab onto tightly. Let the Spirit of this Season transform the days leading up to Christmas into a time to joyfully await the birth of our Lord.
Meaning and Symbolism
The fourth candle of Advent is called the “Angel Candle” and symbolizes peace. This name comes from the fact that the angels announced that Jesus came to bring peace (Luke 2:14). This week we are reminded that Jesus came to bring peace to our hearts and to our world!
Advent is the first season of the church year, beginning with the fourth Sunday before Christmas and continuing through the day before Christmas. The name is derived from a Latin word for “coming.” The season is a time of preparation and expectation for the coming celebration of our Lord’s nativity, and for the final coming of Christ “in power and glory.”
Advent invites us all to choose to set aside the fear and uncertainty that defined 2020. It’s a chance to be intentional about taking our focus off of the hustle of the Christmas season. We can also give to God the sadness that many may be feeling as many of us will need to observe the holiday season differently this year. This fourth Advent Sunday we are reminded that Jesus offers us peace in every season and nothing is impossible with him!
Prayers for Peace for the Fourth Sunday of Advent
A Personal Prayer for Peace
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” Colossians 3:15
Lord, I invite your peace to rule my heart! As I end this year and reflect on your many gifts you have given me; let my heart be encouraged with the truth that you are a good God. I thank you for sending your Son to die for me. I thank you for the peace I have through you. May my words and actions be ones that glorify you. Amen.
A Prayer for Peace for Our World
“The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace.” Psalm 29:11
Lord, would you bring your strength and peace to your people! Would your presence be felt by all who seek you in a powerful way in this Advent season. Turn the hearts of mankind towards you. We pray that the lost turn to you and find an unshakable peace that nothing else in this world can offer. Amen.