What a year, what a month. As I right this, I can't imagine what it will be like to tell my kids about the year 2020. How history will explain what happened in just a short year. Among this pandemic it has brought many things including: chaos. I want to tell you right away, I am not writing about political views or my opinions of Covid. I am going to be talking about what we all have experienced in our hearts and minds. So what is chaos and how do we break through it?
Chaos can be all around us, but we can still have peace in the midst of it. That's how we break through. Chaos is defined as: a state of things in which chance is supreme, or a state of utter confusion (Merriam-Webster). What does chaos look like? Cancelations for important events, work stress, family situations, health issues, and so on. Do you want to live in a state of chance all the time? Not me. It's not good for our mind or heart. However, we can't always control that. We try so hard to get rid of chaos, but instead we need to invite an environment of peace and stability into our lives. Be at peace, not in pieces. Peace doesn't take away what is going on around us, but it can get us through it.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33.
Where do you get your peace? Some get it from being outdoors, relaxing, meditating, praying, the Bible, or other stress relieving activities. Peace is freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions. My favorite definition is, "Peace is not the absence of conflict, peace is the awareness of the presence of God". If we always try to go through life trying to get through the chaos without peace, we will never win.If you have peace, you always win! Only God can give us that special peace. It's not the same peace that the world gives. The world doesn't have much to give right now, so we must turn our eyes toward him. Peace brings wholeness. Wholeness allows you to enjoy things in life like, game night with your family, hikes in the woods, road trips, coffee with a friend, or time spent with loved ones. Peace is also joy in sorrow, hope in despair, and forgiveness and generosity.
Never be in a hurry; do everything quietly and in a calm spirit. Do not lose your inner peace for anything what so ever, even if your whole world seems upset.
St. Francis de Sales
This quote is a great reminder. Don't lose your inner peace for anything what so ever. Receive peace this season and forever. Enjoy time in God's presence, take a step out in God's creation, spend time with a friend (no matter what that looks like), write a card to someone, send a gift, listen to music, zoom a friend or family member, journal and set goals, Take your dog for a walk, or take up a new hobby. Let your life slow down and enjoy it with what you can, with what you have, where you are. You don't have to understand peace, it's a free gift. You just have to ask for it and accept it.
"And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7.
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