Pastor’s Paragraph - April 16, 2020
The Peace of Christ
When I gave birth to my first child I felt relatively alone. My husband was out of the country in the military. As I went to the hospital and into labor I remember the amazing peace that came to me. It felt like strength and confidence. I felt an extreme trust in the process of having a child. I also felt this peace when Don and I go to Madison and eat at a little hamburger place that is like a boat on the river. I had lived as a small child right down the road directly across the street from the river and that might be part of the serenity. Don and I also experienced this same peace in a particular cathedral in Rome. When we entered it was as though we were surrounded by a million souls worshipping God. It was an experience of peace and awe.
During the first four weeks of being confined in the house I have to admit my prayer and devotional life has been pretty much the same as usual. I have felt guilt that I am well while others are ill. I have questioned why this has to happen and how long will it last. I have felt closeness to my children with whom I text almost every day. I have felt tenderness for the helpers I have encountered. But most of all I have felt peace so great that sometimes I just want to sit and be in this peaceful Presence of God.
Yes, all of the good feelings of love and connectedness are from and of God but the peace of Christ is an overwhelming comfort. All we have to do is to allow a time to be aware of it. We can simply let it in and savor it. I am so very thankful for the peace of Christ!
Lord God, we thank you for your holiness which comes to us in feelings of peace and love. We ask that you remind us to take time to be aware of your Presence and the ways in which you bring peace from chaos. We thank you above all for the peace of Christ and pray that others might become aware of this blessing too. Amen.
