Calm that Jesus Gives!
Be calm! That’s a very short and simple sentence. Here’s the kicker: how do we do this? If I knew the full answer to that, I could really help to solve a lot of our problems in our world, but I don’t have the full answer! However, I do find inspiration and answers as to how to be calm in His Word
I invite you to read this article from Xavier University, titled “Calming Prayers.”
In the Prayers, I really was inspired to rethink how I handle moments when I feel anxious, sad, or worried. From the very first Prayer, the topics of unity and calmness were intertwined. This was very inspirational because it reminded me that we have to be kind, at peace, and thus united with each other in order to reach true calmness. As humans, we have divisions that arise among us from differences of opinions, backgrounds, thoughts, and desires. However, when we reframe our mindsets to one of humility and love towards each other, many of our divisions cease!
Throughout many of the Prayers, we are also reminded that we don’t have it all together, but guess what? God is alright with that and doesn’t judge us for it! So, why do we judge each other because of our imperfections or differences? We acknowledge that we aren’t perfect, so why do we expect others to be perfect or perfectly in agreement with us? Live with kindness!
In even more of the Prayers, we are reminded to let go, be available to help each other and ourselves (and not take on too much so we are overwhelmed and not available), be forgiving of ourselves and each other, get the rest we need to recover and be our best selves, and to appreciate the joy that God gives us!
I know that this isn’t an easy task. It’s hard for all of us. But, as I said last week, being inspired by our Youth Minister Kendrall, it’s always ok to ask for help and never a sign of weakness. In fact, it’s actually the opposite – a sign of strength! We have pastors, family members and friends, and counselors that are there to help us to reach that beautiful word called “calmness!” And, the Ultimate Counselor will always be there leading us through our days, in good times and in bad times. Remember, “BE CALM!”
Peace!
Joey