Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you. I do not give it to you as the world gives it. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not be afraid.  John14:27

St Augustine’s words also touched my heart this week.  “You have made us for yourself, O Lord. Our hearts are restless, until we rest in You!” Jesus gives us His Peace. His Spiritual Tranquility! This week I was experiencing great restlessness; physically and spiritually. I began to worry about the future. What will it look like for me and my family? How will I manage? How will I find the right resources needed for my dad?

 I was thirsting for the Lord’s Peace.    

I knew where I could experience this spiritual tranquility, at the beach! That is one of the advantages of being in Florida. It has been such a blessing for me during my time of grief. When I first arrived at the beach, I could not find peace, but as I sat quietly, I began to allow my mind to become still, and I focused my attention on my senses. I was able to feel the sun shining on my face and the cool breeze on my body. I listened to the laughter of children and the ebb and flow of the waves. I could smell the salt air and thanked God for his creation and for loving me. I felt His presence and I had such gratitude to be alive. I had the knowledge that God was with me in this experience, and He will never turn His back on me. Even when He seems distant, He is the one that dwells in my heart and your heart!  

Lord, keep your hand on me! As I step out of my comfort zone into unfamiliar territory, I realize I am also stepping out for God too! In the Book of Jabez, God’s hand represents His Power, Presence and Passion for his People. As Jabez prayed for God’s hand, he was asking for His Divine help in every challenge and/or opportunity he faced.

As I prayed to God this week, I asked Him to keep His hand on me not just for the week, but for always. He let me know He would. He gave me His discernment, encouragement, and His supernatural strength to do His Will. But most importantly, He gave me His Peace!

May you always feel God’s Presence and His Peace!

Roxane Angotta

Spiritual Director

Malta House

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