Finding Peace in the Middle of the Noise

by Pastor Krista Price
Week of December 1

This morning, I found myself tucked inside Roasted Coffee in The Village—a warm little shop buzzing with conversation, clinking mugs, and the steady hum of espresso machines. It was noisy in that comforting, small-town way, the kind of noise that reminds you life is happening all around.

While waiting for my coffee, I learned something delightful: the owner once attended Salem Church. Suddenly the room felt even cozier—like I’d stumbled into a reunion without even planning it. Moments like that are small reminders of how closely our stories are woven together.

We’re moving into the second week of Advent now. Last week we leaned into Hope, and this week, we turn toward Peace. Standing there in that bustling café, it struck me that peace isn’t always found in quiet places. Sometimes it shows up right in the middle of the noise—in warm conversations, in familiar faces, in spaces where community gathers.

Still, there are seasons when peace feels harder to come by. Maybe life has been heavy lately. Maybe you’re carrying something that’s left your heart a little unsettled. If that’s you, hear this: Jesus offers a peace that’s different from anything the world can manufacture. Not the peace of everything being perfect—but the peace of knowing you’re held, loved, and never alone.

My prayer for you this week is simple:

May you nurture your soul.
May you tend your relationships.
May you find places—quiet or noisy—where your heart can breathe again.
And may the peace of Christ meet you exactly where you need it most.

I can’t wait to see you on Sunday.
Blessings for the week ahead.