On December 8, Pastor Dwayne Richardson delivered a heartfelt sermon titled “Advent – Peace in Jesus’ Name,” focusing on the profound gift of peace that comes through Christ. Drawing from Luke 2:25-38, Pastor Richardson reflected on the story of Simeon, a devout man who held the infant Jesus and declared he could now “depart in peace” after witnessing the fulfillment of God’s promise.
Pastor Richardson began by addressing the universal human longing for peace, hope, and fulfillment. He noted how many people search for satisfaction in worldly possessions or achievements but remain unfulfilled. True peace, he emphasized, comes only from Christ. He described this peace as a deep, abiding assurance that anchors believers, even amid life’s uncertainties.
Central to the sermon was the theme of surrender. Pastor Richardson urged the congregation to release control of their struggles and trust God with their lives. “The battle is not yours; it’s the Lord’s,” he reminded, echoing the importance of humbling oneself and allowing God to work through every situation.
He encouraged believers to cultivate a daily habit of prayer and communication with God, surrendering fears, doubts, and insecurities. “When you allow God to fight your battles, you’ll find peace in every situation,” he said, pointing out that peace is not the absence of problems but the presence of God in the midst of them.
Pastor Richardson challenged listeners to become bearers of God’s peace, bringing love, comfort, and light into the spaces they inhabit. “When you walk into a room, if there is no peace, you bring it,” he declared, emphasizing that the Holy Spirit empowers believers to embody Christ’s love and peace in their daily lives.
Highlighting scriptures like John 14:27 and Isaiah 9:6, Pastor Richardson described Christ as the “Prince of Peace,” whose birth is a gift to humanity. He reminded the congregation that peace is not merely a seasonal sentiment but a lasting inheritance for God’s children. He encouraged them to embrace this peace as a present from God, a “deposit” of what is to come in eternity.
In closing, Pastor Richardson invited the congregation to reflect on the significance of Christ’s peace in their lives. He encouraged them to let go of worldly anxieties, embrace God’s presence, and walk confidently in the assurance of His love. “Peace is not found under the tree—it’s found in Christ,” he proclaimed, urging everyone to celebrate this Advent season with a heart full of gratitude and trust in the Prince of Peace.
