As we highlight the “Fruits of the Spirit” this month, we come to those of Peace and Patience. It has been said that peace is being okay with the process of life. In other words, we aren’t fighting what is but live in acceptance. I think peace is something our souls eternally long to experience. Believe it or not being at peace is a choice. In every moment we get to choose our response and reaction to life’s events. If a disturbing situation arises we can look at it to determine if there is something we can do to change it, and if there is then do it. However, if there is nothing we can personally do, then accept it for what it is and move on.
The “fruit” of patience goes hand in hand with peace. Patience does not come easily for me, and I suspect that’s true of lots of people. There’s a joke that says, “Lord, give me patience and give it to me now!” Our egos want what we want when we want it. I remember a few years ago our church was going through a move and we were searching for the right and perfect place to meet. I coined the phrase at the time, “It will come in Spirit speed.” Spirit speed can be incredibly fast, or it can come at a snail’s pace. We just kept our intention alive and active and sure enough all the pieces fell together in perfect order and timing!
As you go through this next week be close to Spirit and trust It. Let go of worrying about “what if’s and only ifs”. Let go of fear, anger, and resistance to what is and instead place your focus on taking a deep breath and allowing what is to simply be. There you will find peace. Trust the process of Life to work in Its own perfect rate.
Say with me: “I change situations that I can in life and if I can’t I accept living in peace and patience to see the bigger picture and know all is well. And it is so.”
—Rev. Gay Beauregard, Alpine Church of Spiritual Living