As Advent returns, we listen again to Isaiah’s promise: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.” (Isaiah 9:2)

The birth of Jesus is that light – a light that enters our world not with force, but with tenderness; not with domination, but with a love that bends low.

Isaiah declares: “A child has been born for us … and his name shall be called Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6) In the Christ child, God chooses the smallest way, the way of vulnerability, humility, and quiet presence. This is the way that heals the world.

Mary’s song is not a gentle lullaby (Luke 1:46-55). It is a prophetic cry announcing what God is doing—and will do—in the world. She proclaims: God lifts the lowly and brings down the proud. God fills the hungry with good things and sends the rich away empty. God remembers the forgotten, the poor, and those who have no voice. God breaks the patterns of injustice and begins a new world where mercy is the ruling truth. Mary sees the world as it is – unfair, unequal, full of fear, and yet she sings of a God who refuses to let things remain that way.

Japanese writer Shusaku Endo described God as a mother-like presence, one who holds the wounded, weeps with the forgotten, and accompanies the weak with infinite gentleness.

For Endo, Jesus is the One whose strength is shown through softness, whose love is revealed through compassion, whose peace is born in the willingness to suffer with humanity.

This is the Jesus who comes at Christmas: The God who draws close to every trembling heart; the God who enters suffering to cradle it with mercy; the God whose peace begins in tenderness.

So, this Advent, we offer this pastoral reflection:
Let us welcome the stranger with compassion.
Let us honor every immigrant neighbor with dignity.
Let us heal racial wounds with courage and humility.
Let us build communities where no one is forgotten and where love is stronger than fear.

For the poor, may what is truly needed – daily bread, shelter, dignity, and justice – be supplied in full measure. May generosity multiply among us, and may every hungry household taste God’s abundance.

For those facing an uncertain tomorrow, may the Christ child whisper courage and speak eternal hope. When the future feels fragile, may God’s promise become the steady ground beneath their feet.

For those who live with illness, pain, or disability, may the breath of God surround them with comfort, and may gratitude rise – not as denial, but as the deep knowledge that their life is immeasurably precious. May God’s tender presence bring healing for each step and joy that surprises the heart.

Christ’s peace is not passive. It is the active, healing love of a God who comes softly yet changes everything. May the birth of Jesus awaken in us a new commitment to walk gently, love boldly, and practice peace in every place God sends us.

Advent Prayer:

God of gentleness and truth,
as we prepare for the coming of Christ,
let His peace take root in our world.

Where violence destroys, let compassion rise.
Where children cry, bring protection.
Where refugees seek safety, grant welcome.
Where nations fracture, sow reconciliation.
Where hatred divides, plant mercy.

Make us instruments of Your peace,
humble in spirit, courageous in love,
faithful in seeking justice for all Your children.

May the Prince of Peace rule in every land,
every home,
and every heart.

Come, Lord Jesus.
Come with Your tender light.
Teach us to live Your peace.
Amen.