peace be still
Storm swirling. Wind breathing so fiercely, breath is taken. Filling with weight unintended to bear. Sinking."Peace, be still!" (Mark 4:39)To the frightened, sinking, desperate, needy...peace spoken by Peace Himself.This trip has felt so covered by peace...when really, it shouldn't. Every grief and loss imaginable is represented in our sweet group...and some so recently fresh and raw. Those grieving experiencing more "firsts" while here...seeing those here who prayed and fasted for healing, stood with us broken, now too grieving with hope. Going to all the familiar places without one who was always here with us. A sweet girl sharing a horrific past with a group for the first time declaring the truth of her perfectly heavenly Father's continual presence."He Himself is our peace" (Ephesians 2:14)The Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6) has become our peace. When I am scared and sinking, He speaks over the storm. His very presence proclaimed brings everything my tumultuous heart needs. His peace is already mine, because He is already mine. Yet I must "Let the peace of Christ rule in [my heart]" (Colossians 3:15). Let His peace act as arbitrator, umpire, decide, determine, direct, control. Not my fear fueled by circumstances that aren't as they should be. Because things aren't as they should be. And I can't pretend they're alright...it's much too exhausting.
Today a tropical storm was supposed to hit the island. We weren't afraid, we knew we would be just fine. After all, we're staying in concrete houses and have a generator. But our hearts were heavy for those we love here whose homes would not withstand the torrential downpours and subsequent flash floods and land slides. We cried out to the Lord, asking for Him to speak peace over the storm as He has our hearts. That He would cover us (Psalm 91:4)."Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7)Peace not based on circumstances. In spite of circumstances really...at least for most of our lives. But peace based on the person of Jesus Christ who is the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8)."He Himself is our peace." Now the storm has skirted the island. Rain is still predicted all day, but it won't be as much. Our friends here will be safe, able to protect their families. But some storms, significant ones have swept over us...and are coming still. But I will receive His words..."Peace, be still!"