How many times have I wanted peace in my life; a relief from the hectic-ness of the day and the sometimes endless demands place upon me by others; clamoring for my attention, or seeking that which I just do not have to give? Bills. Overflowing calendars and never-ending tasks to be attended to. Collectors, or at least, solicitors. Scam artists promising me wealth, security and release from worldly troubles. All intruding into my waking hours, and yet none bringing the tranquility which my spirit – which our spirits – so anxiously seek.
And then out up of my spirit arises again the truth that I have always known, but have often forgotten; the truth that only my God can provide the peace and serenity for which we all long. It is Lord of Life who provides that which my inner self longs, even amidst the demands of the world around me.
3 You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!
4 Trust in the Lord always, for the Lord God is the eternal Rock.
5 He humbles the proud and brings down the arrogant city. He brings it down to the dust.
7 But for those who are righteous, the way is not steep and rough. You are a God who does what is right, and you smooth out the path ahead of them.
8 Lord, we show our trust in you by obeying your laws; our heart’s desire is to glorify your name.
9 All night long I search for you; in the morning I earnestly seek for God.
Isaiah 26: 3-5, 7-9a
Almighty God, who is the provider of all that I truly seek – that we all truly seek – and which the world and its riches cannot impart, hear my prayer as I again turn to you.
In the morning, afresh and renewed, my face arises to you, as the sun arises to meet the new dawn.
In the mid-day hour, I stop my endless efforts to pause and seek your presence, strength and guidance through the myriad of tasks before me.
In the evening hour I wait on you in my time of prayer: as I lift up my voice in thanksgiving for the goodness of this day; as I humbly confess my humanness and shortcomings; as I listen for your still small voice which will fortify me and never fail.
And, in this time with you I find my peace – my hope – my direction. I find that which brings wholeness to my being.
Praise and glory be always unto you.
Amen.
Rev. Michael Kirchhoff
based on Isaiah 26: 3-5, 7-9
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