Held by the Prince of Peace
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you."
—Isaiah 26:3 (NIV)
As a social work professor, I spend my time educating and equipping students to support people during times of crisis and pain. Social work is a profession that focuses on serving the poor and most vulnerable among us. As practitioners, social workers are often supporting individuals, families, and communities as they seek peace amidst devastating circumstances.
One of the most appealing parts of Advent season for me is the promise of peace. Amid life, in all its joy and heartache, looking for peace is common to the human experience. The focus of peace during Advent draws so many of us who are worn, weary, and in need. Life can be so hard as we juggle pain in ways that are more external, inviting others in to support us. Many of us also juggle pain in ways that are hidden, which can be lonely and add to our tribulations. During Advent, we anticipate remembering the birth of Christ, the Prince of Peace. In this remembrance, we are invited into the sweet relief of God’s peace.
Part of what draws me to this verse in Isaiah is that it reminds us that God is the holder of our peace. We see the admonition here to trust in God, which I suspect is a hard thing for many of us to do. However, the hope in this verse is that it reminds us that God is the one who keeps us in peace: being held in peace is not just up to our own efforts that are so limited by our humanity. For that, I am grateful.
Our anxious cries for peace seem most urgent during hard times. It is also possible for good things to be so overwhelming that they result in us seeking peace during abundant times. Whether the reminders of peace during Advent find us in lean times or abundant ones, may we all be met by the comfort of the Prince of Peace, who holds us closely in love and care.
About the Author
Luci Ramos Hoppe, Ed.D.
Interim Dean and Clinical Associate Professor Diana R. Garland School of Social Work
Luci Ramos Hoppe, Ph.D., is a Clinical Associate Professor and the BSW Program Director in the Garland School of Social Work and currently serves as the Interim Dean. Dr. Ramos Hoppe received her doctorate in Higher Education from Boston College. She holds a BA in Spanish and Social Work and a MSW from Baylor University.
Dr. Ramos Hoppe’s scholarly interests include consideration of theoretical frameworks in higher education, asset-based approaches to assessment and supporting college student success. Her social work practice experience includes engagement with Spanish speaking populations, marriage education, school social work and child welfare. Dr. Ramos Hoppe is married to Brian Hoppe and together they have two children.