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| Derek Ross |
For many lawyers, the concept of peace can feel distant, if not unattainable. In our adversarial legal system, conflict is an inherent part of much of our work. All too often, that conflict creates extraordinary stress and anxiety, imposing difficult demands that can take a serious toll on our personal wellness.
Recent studies reveal the rarity of peace for many in the legal profession, where we see disproportionately high levels of burnout, depression and psychological distress. And in the wider world around us, peace can seem increasingly illusory, especially as national and global conflicts intensify.
Yet as elusive as peace might seem at times, it continues to resonate as one of our most cherished aspirations and remains a central concept in Canadian law. Along with “order” and “good government,” peace is embedded as a core constitutional principle. Securing a foundation for “peace in the world” animates the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and its recognition of the inherent dignity and equal rights of every person. These principles also inspired the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and human rights statutes across our country.
But lofty aspirations can seem hollow, especially for those who may be struggling to find peace at a personal level. How can we contribute to building peace in any meaningful way when it feels so distant in our own lives?
This is where the Christmas story provides a powerful reminder: peace doesn’t depend on our personal circumstances, or achievements or abilities. True peace isn’t contingent on what’s happening around us, how well our work is going or whether we’ve met our year-end targets.
Christmas recognizes a transcendent peace secured long ago in the birth of the one described as the “Prince of Peace,” Jesus of Nazareth. While not everyone celebrates Christmas in this way, its message is a universal one and all can draw inspiration from its story of peace, hope and love.
For example, Jesus’s birth in a stable reminds us that authentic peace arises from a place of humility: it isn’t about making our lives or our surroundings perfect but accepting the opportunities they provide to help those around us, in the service of a greater good.
Throughout his life, Jesus did exactly that. He emphasized the importance of loving others and seeking their welfare above one’s own. This kind of peace building is what really matters, as he explained: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” Jesus ultimately laid down his life so others could experience peace and understand what love truly looks like.
In doing so, he delivered a liberating message: peace is not an impossible goal we must somehow attain, but a gift we have been given. Jesus described it this way: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
Therein lies the beauty of the Christmas message: peace is not situational but endures despite our circumstances, not because of them. Instead of anchoring our self-worth in what we have (or haven’t) been able to achieve, we can find purpose in a truth that transcends the sacred-secular divide, reflected both in scripture and in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: every person has been endowed with reason and conscience, and possesses inherent dignity. Christmas can remind us of a Creator’s love which animates that endowment — a love that promises peace and goodwill to everyone.
Whatever your traditions, I hope you find the opportunity this season to step back from life’s demands and rediscover the meaning of peace. May you be reminded that you are part of a bigger story, one where “peace on Earth” isn’t merely a festive slogan, but a gift that holds true promise.
May that promise be fulfilled for all.
Derek Ross is executive director and general counsel of Christian Legal Fellowship, Canada’s national association of Christian lawyers and law students.
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