The God of Peace Will Be With You - From the desk of Amanda Lutes

The second reading this weekend (Philippians 4:6-9) has always struck a special chord with me, and in this time of uncertainty, it seems to be even more fitting. With the change of the season, kids going back to school (in whatever format that looks like at this time - and perhaps subject to change), thinking ahead to the holiday season and not knowing what gatherings will look like, the unknown surrounding the pandemic, the upcoming election & social impacts of that, and so many other things within each of our lives, it’s challenging to not be drawn into the anxiety & what-ifs. But in the second reading, we hear:

“Have no anxiety at all, but in everything,

by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving,

make your requests known to God.

Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding

will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

Much easier said than done. But one thing I’ve found to be particularly helpful is to take a moment each morning (usually while enjoying my first couple sips of coffee). Just a moment, to start the day giving thanks to God, and making a conscious effort to carry that through the rest of the day.  

“[...] whatever is true, whatever is honorable,

whatever is just, whatever is pure,

whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious,

if there is any excellence

and if there is anything worthy of praise,

think about these things.

Keep on doing what you have learned and received

and heard and seen in me.

Then the God of peace will be with you.”

May the God of Peace be with you, quieting any anxiety in your heart, and drawing you close.

• Amanda