Got Peace

As seen in the  "The Heartbeat" and published in the Hot Springs Village Voice

What a crazy question you might say. 2020 has been nothing but peaceful in this world. We started out with political fighting in our nation’s capital (like that’s new?), and suddenly the pandemic began. Since early March, we have been isolating ourselves, washing our hands, not touching our face, and wearing masks in an effort to beat this ugly disease. I don’t believe there isn’t a family who hasn’t been touched in one way or another by the virus.

To help prevent the spread of COVID, handshaking has been replaced with fist bumps, elbow bumps, or just virtual "high fives." Human contact, something we all are designed to desire has stopped. And if you’re one of those people who like to hug, you are going crazy about now. Suffice it to say, our lives have been upended this year.

Scientists have begun to talk about the impact in another aspect of our lives. Mental health is becoming a topic of concern. People are sinking lower in the pit of depression, and as a result suicides are sadly increasing, divorces are up, and there is a general lack of enthusiasm in our steps. What are we to do to overcome all of this?

When is the last time you sat on the back deck and just listened? This past week I sat on my back patio and listened to the wind. A cold front was passing through, so the wind was picking up. I heard it coming in the tops of the tall pine trees. Those closest to my house weren’t moving, but I could see the effect of the coming wind as the tops of the trees began to move far away, and then move closer as in a wave. I couldn’t see the wind, but I could definitely see the effects of it in the treetops. It was a peaceful sound and enjoyable sight.

In all of this world, where can you go to find peace? Is it on a local lake fishing in the stillness of the morning? Is it on a golf course, seeing a deer or fox run across the fairway ahead of you? Is it sitting in a quiet place in your home with open curtains, seeing the room bathed in sunlight? All can be wonderful and peace-producing, but are they not fleeting moments?

Jesus told His disciples, "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." He was telling them, and us, His peace is nothing like we can construct or develop on our own. His peace is unimaginable and life-altering.

By accepting Christ as our personal savior and receiving the Holy Spirit, we have a wellspring of peace available to us every day. So, in this crazy year, when is the last time you went to the well of Peace?

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