Matterofprayer: A Year of Everyday Prayers – Monday, April11, 2016
PEACE is Sweet, and Contentment
I am continuing with some special personal definitions of PEACE. These definitions came from my invitation to visit the Muslim Community Center last Sunday afternoon.
The president of the Sunday school reminded the gathered crowd that I was there to ask the simple question “What is PEACE, to you?”
Several people wrote down their simple definition, and that is wonderful! However—I did not have an opportunity to speak to them, because so many people gathered around the table where I stood. I felt so glad to have so many people get involved! This is important. Encouraging individuals to think about what PEACE means to them is key to continuing the conversation of peace and harmony. Especially, peace and harmony amidst such a diverse community!
Silvat’s personal definition: “PEACE is contentment of the soul.”
Javed’s personal definition: “PEACE is SWEET, and to be sweet.”
I would have loved to ask each of these dear people a follow-up question! Found out, further, exactly what each of them was thinking.
When I think of the sweetness of peace, I can’t help but think of honey. Sweet. Natural. And, when I used to have a bad cough or a sore throat, my grandmother used to suggest honey and lemon to soothe and coat the inside of the throat. What a wonderful mental image! Sweet—honey—peace.
The first impression that comes to be when I think of “contentment of the soul?” A long, gentle exhalation. Unwinding of my muscles. Decompressing my body in preparation for a peaceful time of meditation and prayer.
Gracious, merciful God, thank You for such vivid images. So helpful for me as I think about PEACE.
Like what you read? Disagree? Share your thoughts with your loved ones and continue the conversation.
Why not visit my sister blogs, “the best of” A Year of Being Kind. @chaplaineliza And, read my sermons from Pastor, Preacher Pray-er
(Thanks to everyone at the Muslim Community Center in Morton Grove, for making this week of personal definitions of PEACE possible.)
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