Peace — Stay There!

We’ve arrived at the SERENE shores of Prince Edward Island, separated from mainland Canada, nestled in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Though a full review of our time here will come tomorrow, today, I revel in the word “serene.”

Serenity brings to mind images of calm waters and tranquil breezes, a state where one can feel “unruffled.” Oh, how I yearn to reside in that state daily! As our ship approached PEI, the waters were placid and inviting—the kind of waters I loved as a slalom skier. Smooth waters allowed for the most graceful moves.

But turbulent waves? Count me out. As we’ve ventured into the vastness of the open sea, whitecaps crest, signaling rough waters. Yet here, inside this ship, we barely notice the waves. The vessel stands firm. Glasses and dishes don’t tremble, not even our tea ripples in its cup. In this stable place, peace prevails.

In life, too, when I fix my gaze on the Prince of Peace, I find stability. The world seeks peace through calm seas, favorable circumstances, and a few manageable challenges. But when life’s storms come, the world’s peace fades, leaving anxiety and unrest.

However, the peace I know is different—the peace Jesus offers. It allows me to navigate life’s challenges with quiet confidence, not contingent on external circumstances, but on the one who resides within.

Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled” (John 14:27).

So today and every day, I choose to hold tight to the reins of peace, regardless of the storms or capsizing boats. I trust in our Captain—the One who walks on water and delivers us from chaos. He anchors us amid life’s tempests and steadies our feet on solid ground.

May peace be with you today, my dear friends!