Peace in the midst of strife

Grant me the Peace -- beyond all earthly knowing
The gentle Peace that came thru Boundless Woe;
And from the Cross, on waves adversely beating
Against my soul, may Jesus calm bestow.

[Rhys, lyrics by W.J. Evans,  1866-1947)

Strength and confidence

Reading "Morning Prayer" and "Evening Prayer" from the Anglican Service Book is a daily blessing.  From this evening's reading"

The waves of the sea are mighty, and rage horribly; but yet the Lord, who dwelleth on high, is mightier.
Ps. 93:5

But the Lord is my refuge, and my God is the strength of my confidence.
Ps. 94:22

Forgiveness

The holidays bring about contact with people whom we'd never choose as friends, but with whom we must relate.  It's an opportunity to let go (as past hurts resurface in our minds) and to let God place his forgiveness in our hearts, even as fresh situations arise.

Trees of Righteousness

There are days where I crash and burn.  Life has situations that seem to crash and burn.  God makes "beauty from ashes...a garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness."  He makes me a "tree of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified."  The ashes provide necessary elements to the soil, making it more balanced,  prepared for new growth.

My Prayer

O! Grant the Peace whereby I would be willing
On earth to do God's work without dismay
Devoid of fear and confidently dwelling
In God the Father's love
Throughout my day.
(H. Elfet Lewis 1860-1935,  English Trans. Caleb Rees)

JOY

Thou shalt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy, and at thy right hand there is pleasure for evermore.  (Psalm 16, as read in morning prayers today)

Church

I’ve recently come to appreciate the depth and beauty of the traditional, liturgical style church service.   There are four scripture passages, five hymns, weekly communion, prayers and confessions and a sermon – all in one church service.  The deep content allows ample opportunity to hear God speak through His Word, the rector’s words, the rich liturgy and the words of the hymns.  I leave every Sunday with some spiritual impression being laid upon my soul.  Thanks be to God.