I use to tie Peace and Quiet together. 

This lead me to a a forever search for that perfect space of peace. A place I imagined as  a silent spot near a stream, with tall evergreens, yellow aspens- and maybe a deer or two stopping to see their reflection in the still water...

Soon after having children I learned that if this was my definition of peace- I may never experience peace again.

This is when I came across what has become one of my favorite sayings:

“Peace does not mean to be free of noise, trouble or hard work; but to be in the midst of all of those things and still be calm in your heart.”

Peace is not a place- but a way of being. A way of being that is as accessible as the air we breath or the ground we stand on. Through a deep breath, a prayer, a centering thought, a knowing glance- peace can fill our lungs and sink deep into our bones. 

This is the peace I wish for us this morning. The peace that fills us in the midst of all of the chaos, all of the activity of the season, all of the struggle and pain. This is the peace that sustains and invites us to our center in God’s love.

May peace fill each of us. 

May peace fill our neighborhoods and communities, 

our city, and our beautiful, snow-covered state. 

May peace fill all people in all places. 

May peace be the force that surpasses boundaries and borders-

May peace overwhelm us and move us close to God and closer to one another.