peace

Peace. Be Still.

Sometimes we use the language of peace to describe when we have finally made a decision and we know it is good for us, "I have a peace about it."

Sometimes peace describes a time without war. 

Jesus calmed a storm with the words, peace. 

The word for peace in Hebrew is Shalom. Shalom encompasses more than mere kindness to neighbors it is a wholeness in God's reign beyond what our human capacity can fathom. It is lions with lambs, and Republicans with Democrats. 

Some of my favorite times of peace include: my sweet sleeping puppy dog, quiet nights watching the twinkling lights on my Christmas tree, starry nights, bubble baths, breathing in headstands, in laughter with friends, a candlelit room during a Christmas Eve service, and the list goes on. 

Where will you find your peace this week? 

"Come quickly, shalom, teach us how to prepare

for a gift that compels us with justice to care.
Our spirits are restless till sin and war cease.
One candle is lit for the reign of God's peace."

-One Candle is Lit, Chalice Hymnal, Mary Anne Parrott