Today, as I light the second candle of Advent, the theme of peace feels deeply personal. This week invites us to reflect on what peace truly means—not just in the world around us but within our own hearts. For me, this season is about slowing down, being present, and trusting God’s plan, even when the journey feels uncertain.

Advent always stirs something in me, a reminder to prepare not just for Christmas morning but for the transformation that happens when I open my heart to God’s work in my life. This year, the idea of peace hits differently. I think about my hopes for the coming year—my relationships with those I love, my relationship with God, and my constant desire to grow into the woman He’s calling me to be.

Trusting the Journey

If I’m honest, peace hasn’t always come easily to me. I like plans and knowing what’s ahead, but this year, God has been teaching me to embrace the unknown. To trust Him when things don’t unfold the way I envisioned. I’ve learned that peace doesn’t mean having everything figured out. It’s about trusting that I’m being guided, even when I can’t see the full picture.

In my relationships, I want to be more intentional—whether it’s showing love to my family, being present for my students, or continuing to nurture the connection I have with the person who makes me laugh the hardest. I’ve realized that peace in my relationships comes when I let go of expectations and allow love to grow naturally, rooted in trust and understanding.

And then there’s my relationship with God. This Advent season, I feel Him gently nudging me to rest in His presence. To let go of the pressure I put on myself to have all the answers. Instead, He’s reminding me that true peace comes from trusting Him completely.

What Peace Looks Like for Me

This week, I want to focus on a few simple ways to embrace peace in my own life. Peace doesn’t always arrive in monumental ways; it’s often found in the small, quiet moments that remind me everything is okay.
1. In my classroom
Peace is seeing my students getting along, helping one another, or sharing a kind word. It’s the look of accomplishment on a child’s face when they finally solve a tricky math problem or feel confident answering a question in front of their peers. Those moments remind me of why I do what I do—and they fill me with joy and calm.
2. In the simple joys of friendship
Peace is a friend knocking on my door, pulling me out of my own thoughts, and saying, “Let’s go work out.” It’s those shared moments of laughter and connection that remind me I’m not alone on this journey.
3. Creating quiet moments
My favorite place to reflect is by my Christmas tree, coffee in hand, lights twinkling softly. It’s in these quiet moments that I feel closest to God. I let the stillness settle over me, reminding me that peace is already here—I just need to make space for it.
4. Letting go of control
Advent reminds me that God’s timing is always better than mine. The journey of waiting is part of His plan, even if I don’t fully understand it yet.
5. Trusting in His promises
Isaiah 9:6 speaks of Jesus as the Prince of Peace, and that promise feels so real this week. I know that no matter what the new year holds, His peace will carry me through.
6. Being present in my relationships
Whether it’s a thoughtful conversation or simply sitting quietly with someone I love, I want to bring peace into the lives of those around me.

I would love to know what peace looks like for you? I invite you on this second Sunday of advent to take a moment to reflect on this question, sit by the fire, sip your coffee and think reflect. I can’t wait to hear what comes to mind.

Until next Sunday,

Sammi