This robin is building a nest.

Every time I open the door,

it flies to the branches of this nearby tree...

reminding me of MY "branch"...

There is a place of quiet rest,

Near to the heart of God;

A place where sin cannot molest,

Near to the heart of God.

There is a place of comfort sweet,

Near to the heart of God;

A place where we our Savior meet,

Near to the heart of God.

There is a place of full release,

Neart to the heart of God;

A place where all is joy and peace

Near to the heart of God.

O Jesus, blest Redeemer,

Sent from the heart of God;

Hold us, who wait before Thee,

Near to the heart of God.

(Cleland B. McAfee)

Serenity, Indeed!

Little did I realize when I titled my last blog post "Serenity"

just how that word would be fleshed out in the following days.

I spent Thursday evening through Saturday morning

with friends at McClish Lake, where one of them owns a cottage.

 The experience has become an annual tradition

that I look forward to so much.

This year, I took with me the book I recently purchased for myself

after glancing at a library copy.

I was not disappointed with even one minute I spent reading Elisabeth Leseur's journal.

"Serenity" kept appearing on the pages in various forms.

I could not escape it!

In one section, she outlined her practice of daily meditation,

a monthly day of reflection and prayer,

and an annual week-long retreat.

I realized this has become my practice apart from specific intention.

How thankful I am
for THIS particular monthly day spent in reflection and prayer

in the encouraging company of true friends.

Serenity, indeed!

I strongly recommend the book.

I celebrate the aforementioned practice.

I enjoy these special friendships...

Serenity

 It had been a full day.

Good, but full.

Church and Sunday school followed by a crock pot dinner

while the men of the house watched the British Open come to a fine ending.

Then, a surprise Open House for a friend's 80th birthday.

While we were out, we decided to attend a 4:00 concert 

of one of our favorite groups, the Senior Saints.

We drove home in a rainstorm with full and happy hearts.

After a light supper, we played some table games with my father.

Just as we were about to put our feet up,

we received a call that a friend had fallen and was taken to the Emergency Room,

so we returned to our car and headed up the busy interstate.

 All the way, we drove into this beautiful sunset.

Serenity.

In spite of traffic going 75-80 MPH around us

and our concern over our friend,

the overpowering beauty of the sky was a reminder 

that ultimately our Creator God who has revealed Himself in Jesus Christ 

remains our Source of serenity and peace in the middle of 
surprise, commotion, hurry and the unknown.

More Peace

Scene outside our living room window this morning....

Shoes of peace. In every situation, peace. No matter where my feet take me or how the path turns, shoes of peace...Into conflict or surprises; over rough ground or smooth, I walk in peace. His peace, strong and sure, keeps my ankles from turning. Keeps my heart from alarming, keeps my feet true rock-centered....And I bring His peace wherever I go. Wherever I walk, shedding peace. Shedding joy, a calm spirit. Bringing life, light and love in my own daily living. Wearing those shoes of His peace.

Have you "met" Rhonda?  The words above are just a part of her reflections from a table in her favorite coffee shop.  A talented and dedicated writer, mother of boys (four, I believe), and perceptive and tender-hearted soul, her words here on this subject help formulate my prayer today.

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace...

 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.

Ephesians 6:15