Almost every Sunday in church, we pray for the leaders or our country, in the hope that their work will enable us to “live quiet and peaceable lives.” Isn’t that what most of us desire above all else? The thought comes directly from these verses in 1 Timothy:
“ urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 1 Timothy 1:1-2
I’ve been reading and watching a good bit of historical fiction these days, and it has made me realize how fortunate we are in our country these days. Most of us alive today have not experienced the day-to-day chaos of war. We’ve never had to flee our homeland to escape persecution; we’ve never been occupied by a foreign power; we’ve not had to make hard choices about whether to resist or support an oppressor. We don’t need to fear being taken off to a concentration camp, or worry about where our next meal is coming from. This is a blessing!
When I think about true peace and serenity, the first thing to come to my mind is the Shepherd’s Psalm, number 23.
“The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.Even though I walk through the darkest valley ,I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Lutheran Ladies Connection 