Peace

By Fiona Beams

I sit outside on a cold Melbourne morning. There's a hot drink in hand, warming me, and a woollen rug around my shoulders. The sun is pushing its way through the trees and I can hear a symphony of birds. The stillness of this glorious day bids me to find peace in my life.

What a morning it has been! My car has broken down-again. The waiting game of roadside assistance and tow trucks are enough for me to lose my peace. But even after such an eventful morning, God has been quietly speaking to my heart: "I know it's been a frantic morning, dear daughter, but I want to show you My gift of peace and joy-especially during hectic moments."

So I sit outside in the fresh air, looking up at the tall gum trees, hearing God's voice in nature. I feel so small among the trees, yet so precious. The branches are strong, smooth and clean. Each leaf is responding to its environment, moving quietly in the breeze.

The birds in my backyard make me laugh. Each variety seems to represent our own personalities.

It is amazing that in the colourless season of winter, rosellas still find winter berries and flowers to eat. They fly together-it seems rosellas value companionship. The magpies are so clumsy in the air. They dart from tree to tree with rough landings-what awkward birds! Suddenly, a wattlebird arrives on the protea bush. Immediately, all other bird varieties leave the area. He is very much aware of his presence in my backyard and enjoys being the "top bird." Bossy personalities certainly affect everybody!

Remaining still in nature gives me perspective. When watching the birds, I am reminded of God's power and creativity. Birds are stunning and Jesus says that I am so much more valuable than they are (see Matthew 6:26).

My God placed beauty around me; He placed me among beauty!

This chilly, hectic morning could have been a struggle. However, by enjoying the birds, sunshine and trees in my backyard, I have seen God's glory and received peace and joy again.

I leave my cosy chair, feeling privileged to be a child of God. I am reminded of the intense love God has for me. If I just stop for a moment, leaving the busy life behind, I see Him everywhere and feel Him near me.

With God in my heart and peace in this moment, I have been given a needed gift. A gift that Jesus gives to all: "I am leaving you with a gift-peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid" (John 14:27, NLT).

Fiona Beams writes from Mooroolbark, Victoria.

This has been a feature from Record, July 25, 2009

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