Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not let them be afraid. John 14:27 (NRSV)

Most of us are familiar with the Lukan narrative of the Christmas Story. It is the most widely read scripture during the season of Advent. Because of its familiarity, it is often accepted without further thought as an indelible part of the holiday landscape. Calming words for a stress-filled world.

Yet surrounding Luke and deeply embedded in John and other gospels are also calming words for our anxiety ridden soci...