The Idol of Peace

We are in the midst of the babymoon- the time I call right after birth where we live in a little bubble of peace and tranquility as we adjust to having a new one around. Evelyn's babymoon was such a restful, peaceful, and joyful time as we watched her eat, sleep, and poop with family around us, not much to do during the day, but rest and get acquainted with our new little one. The same thing is happening with Charles. Parents are in town to help with Evelyn. Every morning starts out with family cuddle time in our bed and we fall deeper and deeper in love with new baby Charles and our little family. I love this time.  I crave this time. I guard this time as a restful and peaceful time. I protect this time for our family.

As I realize this and cherish it and store it away to ponder in my heart, I realize what I really am desiring is peace. I need peace. I need this time to be peaceful and so I strive to make it happen. I am a person of peace, someone who strives for it and wishes it to be in every area of my life. That is a lofty wish because conflict abounds everywhere (and I am awful about conflict), but at home, with my family, I do have to ability to make it a place of peace. And so I do go after it.

And what exactly is peace? To me, it's the rhythm and routine of the day that allows for work and rest and full enjoyment of those around me. It's space to do all that needs to get done without anxiety or rushing about or stress. It's a everything in its place and having a place for everything. It's being prepared for the unexpected and grace for the bumps and bruises along the way. It's calm strength. It's a good attitude. It's the strong, quiet joy of God's love emanating from deep within. It's gratitude and grace. It's a form of love.

I am not sure why I grasp tightly these images of peace, but I know that I need them. I know that I can't always live its bubble, even though I want to, but i will make the most of the time i have in it. I know that the valleys of the shadow of death will come, but the memories of green pastures where my soul is restored will remind me. Remind me that the Lord God is a God of Love and peace and rest. And I can rest in Him, love and be loved to the glory of His name. Amen.