Virginia realizes she has previously shared this quote – possibly several times – from her favorite saint. But, such a good quote deserves multiple shares!

“May today there be peace within. May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith. May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content knowing that you are a child of God. Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of you.” Saint Teresa of Avila

On this Thursday of Lent (and every day for that matter) God’s peace is available. In these turbulent times our internal peace thermometers may skew high with angst and worry. How do we maintain peace within?

Saint Teresa lays it out for us. First, we must TRUST GOD. That’s a biggie. Then we need to accept where we are, yet remember faith opens doors to infinite possibilities. We are also meant to use our God-given gifts and serve as conduits of God’s love.

God’s love flowing through us tends to lift our focus from me-stuff to others. When that happens our me-stuff usually undergoes a perspective adjustment touched by God’s love.

Understanding how precious we are in God’s sight is another peace booster. You are a precious child of God. I am a precious child of God. We are beloved. Resting in that truth engenders contentment – not complacent contentment but the kind that acts and does peace from a place of joyous acclamation.

As we allow God’s presence to swallow up our fears with peace within our hearts, our spirits can sing, dance, praise and love.

grace, peace & peace within

Virginia : )

p.s. Asking God straight up for extra doses of peace every day is also a good idea!