
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. —John 14:27
When thoughts turmoil my heart
and worries wrinkle my mind
I go to Jesus
in the woods
and find him waiting
there.
In the laid-down grasses
where doe rested with her fawn,
in the gentle rhythm of tree frog’s chant,
in the exuberant vine climbing the oak,
in the silent flight of owl returning to rest for the day.
In the soothing call of cricket,
in the smell of fallen leaves,
in the flashing wings of swallow,
in the water of pond, still and bright.
Here, the Prince of Peace
holds my hand
stills my mind
calms my heart.
O, joyous peace!
Wonderful God, we thank you for the peace you offer through your beloved son. Help us to find that stillness and sanctuary we seek in times of turmoil. Amen.
Betty Schroeder