By Lisa McLean of Hammond, Indiana USA
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.
From early spring to late autumn, sometimes wrapped in a blanket, I sit in my hammock swing on our porch. From here I can watch the rain, see our garden growing, and observe the busy hummingbirds. If early enough, I can behold the sunrise. If late enough, I can immerse myself in the twinkling of stars and fireflies.
Most of the time I have music in my ears, music that both excites and soothes my spirit, accented by bird chirps from the apple tree, flowing streams, and the tinkling of wind chimes as the breeze drifts by. It is a place where I can read scripture and glean what God has for me. It is a place where I can meet God heart-to-heart in conversation and worship—my sanctuary on the mountain… in the woods… on my porch… nestled in my woven swing.
It is here that I remember to thank God for my sight as I see a myriad of greens along with pop of colors as each season displays its beauty. I smell the forest, wet with rain, and God reminds me that my boundary lines have fallen in pleasant places. Here I “dwell in the shelter of the Most High and abide in the shadow of the Almighty.”
Where is your quiet place? Where is the place your heart connects to the heart of your Creator? What do you see? What is your vision? What mysteries is the Holy Spirit revealing to you? What sweet words are whispered to you? Meet God with curiosity and awe, seeking to know God in a new way and discovering the plan for your life as you go.
God waits for you.
Prayer Phrase
“In his hand is the life of every living thing” (Job 12:10).
Trees
Watch the trees outside your window for a few moments. Close your eyes and meditate on Alma’s words about seeds and trees. If you were to plant and grow the Word of God in your heart, what tree might symbolically represent this process? Imagine a seed as it grows into a tree of life and blessing. Ask God to show you how to begin (see Alma 16:152–173).
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.