Peace

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.  He shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”  Isaiah 9:6

I love the word, “Shalom”, not only because of its definition, but also because the very word when verbalized feels like peace.  The Hebrew word means, “peace, harmony, wholeness, completeness, prosperity, welfare and tranquility.”  All these blessings wrapped up in one very beautiful word.

As the snow came down in Marietta and all of the surrounding areas a few weeks ago,  we were “stranded” (meaning traffic was bumper to bumper) around Perimeter Mall area.  Once we got home safely, I could take a deep breath and enjoy the snow.  I don’t know what it is, but when snow falls, the world seems so quiet and peaceful.  I can feel my whole body relax and breathe in the pure tranquility.

Therapists say that the only time the body is completely relaxed is when we take a deep breath and exhale.  It’s such a shame that we carry so much stress that we have to take a time apart and just breathe to feel relaxed.

It’s time to make New Year’s resolutions which always adds to my stress level because I set unrealistic goals and expectations for the New Year. Then, I rationalize when I break the resolutions.  Can I lose those extra 20 pounds?  Only if I don’t have to give up sweets.  Can I exercise every day?  I have to take Sundays off.  Can I eat healthy meals?  I don’t know how to cook healthy.  Can I read my Bible every day?  Yes, but do I let other things come first?  Yes.  Can I pray for others every day?  Of course, but I don’t always remember to include everyone.  The stress of keeping those resolutions adds to all the other stress of life.

This year my resolution is simple – rely on God and know that He will never give us anything that the two of us can’t handle.  It’s not stress that makes my shoulders and neck ache, it’s my reaction to it.  In this new year of 2018, I am praying simply for peace.  Peace in the world, peace in our country, peace in our community, peace in our homes, peace in our families, and peace in my heart.  Shalom.  Inhale.  Exhale.