Saturday afternoon provided the perfect circumstances for a cozy sit by the fire. The calendar was clear for the day and we could burrow into the quiet. Snow showers added to the tranquility as they gently outlined backyard trees in white.
The serenity of our sitting area is enhanced by the beloved hand-me-down decor: the clock, oil lamp and child-size rocker from my grandmother, lanterns that belonged to Steve’s Dad and grandfather, books of our parents’ youth, and a painting that once hung in the home of Steve’s parents.
Altogether, the golden firelight, familiar furnishings, and cozy comfort engender peace and contentment.
But as delightful as these moments are, this kind of tranquility is fleeting. At any moment the phone might ring and the caller share distressing news. Then we’ll hardly notice our snug surroundings as concerns and questions begin to demand our attention.
When that phone call comes, circumstantial peace will not be enough. But that’s the only kind this world can offer. What we really need at such times is a stillness of spirit that originates outside this world from the Master of Peace.
“My peace I give you,” Jesus told his disciples. “I do not give you as the world gives.”
Remember when he spoke those words? The night before he died. He well knew what was to come (1). The next day would be a maelstrom of suffering, climaxed by tortuous pain on a cross.
How could he speak of peace on the eve of such horror?
Because his heart was always directed Godward, resulting in radiant peace. Jesus faced rejection, false accusations, hateful treatment (from religious leaders no less), and even attempted stoning. And yet he remained unruffled.
“Christ’s life outwardly was one of the most troubled lives that was ever lived…But the inner life was a sea of glass. The great calm was always there” (2).
And this is the peace he offers us—a peace that includes tranquility, security, and prosperity of spirit in spite of circumstances. It is “a rare treasure, dazzling in delicate beauty yet strong enough to withstand all onslaughts” (3).
How do we avail ourselves of this treasure?
By reviewing the attributes and promises of our Prince of Peace–all day long.
“Great thoughts of Christ will pilot you into the haven of peace,” said Charles Spurgeon.
Perhaps we could word our great thoughts of Christ as a prayer:
You, Lord Jesus, are our Good Shepherd, always leading in the way we should go. You tenderly watch over us, meeting every need and protecting us from evil—including wild, fearful thoughts and emotions (4).
You are full of love for us. Out of your kindness and compassion you see us through every dark valley of life. Though we may not always be aware, you are ever-present, ready to offer strength and support (5).
You have said, “Everything is possible for those who believe” (6). And we know that’s true because we’ve seen your miracles. You’ve healed incurable diseases; you’ve protected and provided in hopeless situations. You’ve enabled others to transition to heaven with impossible grace and joy.
For these reasons and many others, we place ourselves in your attentive, all-wise, all-powerful care.
You are our Mighty One, our Rock, our Haven of Peace.
______________________________
P.S. I started rough drafting this post last Saturday afternoon, while sitting by that fire. Uncertainty had already moved into our hearts after Steve’s blood work last week turned up questionable results. The doctor immediately called for a cat scan that took place on Friday. Monday he shared the results with us: liver cancer.
Steve is now on an obstacle-ridden road toward a liver transplant, and the future holds much greater uncertainty than we faced last week.
Do you suppose it’s just coincidence that I’ve been reading, thinking, and writing about peace for the last six days?
I don’t think so either.
Notes:
(1) Luke 22:15-16
(2) Henry Drummond
(3) Sarah Young
(4) John 10:3-4; 2 Thessalonians 3:3; John 10:11
(5) Ephesians 5:1-2; Luke 6:35; Matthew 28:20
(6) Mark 9:23
Photo credits: http://www.publicdomainpictures.net; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.canva.com; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.wikimedia.com; http://www.canva.com; http://www.wikimedia.org.
From the Inside Out 
Now I know why you two have been in my prayers more than usual. I praise the Lord for the faith He’s given you. His peace will sustain you. And only the Lord knows how you two will touch many lives through this trial. We will continue praying. Love, Nikki
Thank you SO much for your prayers, dear Nikki. (I know how fervently you pray!!) Praise God HE is in control and will see us through this. Strange as it might seem to some people, Steve and I feel cocooned in his peace right now–transcending peace just as he promises (Philippians 4:6-7)!
Steve is in my thoughts and prayers…
I was just thinking of your mom the other day… you all float into my memories often. So many wonderful ones at that!
A wonderful message to read tonite…
God Bless
Your flower girl…
Jeannie 🌹
Oh Jeannie, how DELIGHTFUL to hear from you. Yes, indeed, we cousins have many memories to enjoy from years gone by! How blessed we were to grow up in an extended family that loved each other and laughed together. Thank you SO much for your thoughts and prayers. I pray blessings upon you, too, my adorable little flower girl!! 🙂
We are praying for healing, peace, and wisdom. We love you, Steve and Nancy! Your lives demonstrate Christ’s love exponentially, and we can’t wait for Clayton to meet the very people who have inspired our marriage these ten years.
Thank you, Brooke, for your kind words. We love you all, too! I thank God our paths crossed and we were able to enjoy several years of life and music together. Now we get to “watch” you and Frank from afar, as you serve God in a new capacities. SO grateful for your prayers, dear Brooke, for healing, peace, and wisdom. Just what we need!
I am so sorry to hear this news about Steve but may the Peace of our Christ that passes ALL understanding be with you and your loved ones.
Your prayer for the Peace of our Christ is already being answered, Grace! Thank you for your kind expression of care.
Dear Nancy,
My wife and I will be praying for you both. Laura went through breast cancer seven years ago so we understand the trusting fully on the Lord. He has a plan and I hope you get that reminder in all of this.
In Christ, Gary
I find myself reaffirming often the statement: God is in control and he will see us through. Lessons ahead for sure on what it means to trust fully on the Lord, in ways we’ve not had to before. Thank you very much for your encouragement, Gary!
Dear Nancy and Steve, I am heartbroken to learn of the diagnosis. You both continue in my thoughts and prayers. I know God’s love and Grace will sustain you through this difficult time. With much love to you both.
Thank you so much, Ruth, for your love, thoughts and prayers. When you say, “God’s love and grace will sustain you through this difficult time,” I know that YOU know of what you speak. Your example in the midst of challenging circumstances speaks volumes about faithfulness, grace, and perseverance. Thank you for that, too.
You know – lots of prayers – several times a day. God will give your strength and peace and wisdom during these times and always.
Praise God for his grace to move in especially close to us when the road becomes rough. Yes–his strength, peace, and wisdom will see us through. (You have my permission to continue to remind me of such truths as this process unfolds!) Thank you SO much, Jean, for your prayers.
Dearest Nancy, I am praying for you and your Steve. When I read your post, my heart sensed that peace the Lord is going to give you and your husband. What a Savior who is acquainted with all we face. What a comfort to know He knows. Much love and prayers from here.
Thank you, Heidi, and AMEN to the truths you shared: God WILL give us his peace that transcends all understanding, he knows all our griefs and therefore perfectly understands how to comfort us. SO appreciate your prayers, dear Heidi.
Nancy, I have been wondering about Steve’s health lately; now I know why. It is very evident that your strong faith is already sustaining you. Praise God for the gift of His Peace that is enfolding you this very moment. I love you both so very much and hold you up in fervent prayer. Using ‘haven’ in the title of this blog is perfect. For as you know, by definition a haven is any place of shelter, safety, and refuge. That’s what we have in Jesus every moment…every hour…every day…forever.
Thank you, Cheri, for your ongoing prayers for us. No doubt God led me to that Spurgeon quote about great thoughts of Christ piloting us into his haven of peace. It is indeed a perfect visual with powerful implications as we move forward. And yes, it is tremendous comfort to realize we have access to that haven every moment, every hour, every day, FOREVER! Such an affirmation brings tears to my eyes–joyful tears. I GREATLY appreciate your encouragement, dear Cheri!
What beautiful thoughts,Nancy. And you are correct with the coincidental. As you and Steve go through this next chapter you know you will be held in the palm of his hand.
Could you add me to your list? What incredible wisdom and faith you share.
Blessings,
Sheila Neuman
Hello, Sheila, how delightful to hear from you! Thank you for reaffirming that we are held in the palm of God’s hand. There’s much comfort in just that statement alone! To be on the emailing list and receive notification when new posts are added here, find the fourth gray box down in the right column at the top of this page. It says, “Follow Blog Via Email.” Click on the little white “Follow” box and you should automatically be on the list. I’m so grateful you found this post meaningful. Praise God! And thank you for your encouragement.
I was so blessed by this. Life is filled with uncertainty and pain, but our God will see us through. You, Steve and your family are in my prayers. Thank you for sharing. 🙏🏻❤️
Praise God you found blessing here. And thank you for your prayers, Kay. We are SO appreciative of caring folks like you are praying for us!
I hardly know what to say except that I am so sorry about this diagnosis for Pastor Ruegg but I’ll keep him and you in prayer.We love you folks here in Florida. The Lord will give you strength and peace as you move forward in the process.
Yes, we are indeed grateful for God’s infinite strength and inexplicable peace that transcends our understanding. He WILL get us through this! Thank you, Sandra, for your prayers.
Nancy, God led me to your article today, and I am glad I took the time to read it You and Steve and in my prayers and First United Methodist Church of Hudson is also praying. The bible verse comes to me for you and Steve, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” ~ Isaiah 41:10.
When I was taking care of Pat, if it wasn’t for me to get up every day and say to myself, God’s will be done , I would have not been able to survive the day. I know, that is what you, also do. It is in His hands, and He will work it out for your good. My love and hugs are with you and Steve. We miss and love you both .
Praise God he DOES work out all circumstances for our good. Such a wonderful reassurance! Thank you for your love and hugs, 1937. I can feel them across all the miles! We love and miss you, too.
Nancy I don’t know why it is 1937 when should be Laura Arnold. Hopefully, you know it is me. Remember our bump hug. Here is another one A Big Bump Hug. God’s blessings to you and Steve
Yes, I figured it was you when you mentioned Pat. And yes I sure do remember our bump hug! Thank you for a fresh one!! Love, Nancy
Nancy, Your strong faith & blog has carried me on many cloudy days over the past three years. Gator & I are both praying for you & Steve, knowing that God has all this in His hands, standing with you on the eternal rock. You are never alone & always in our hearts & prayers. Anita
Praise God he has used these posts to help carry you through some cloudy days. SO appreciate your prayers. Yes, our Heavenly Father has all this in his hands. Yes, he stands with us and never leaves us alone. Thank you, dear Anita, for these strong affirmations of what our God does!
When I first heard this over the weekend Nancy it added even more meaning for my prayers for you and Steve and family. Please know that we are praying that the obstacles will be overcome and Steve gets the liver he needs and for a successful surgery and a speedy recovery. We pray that you both can sustain your faith and God gets you through this trying time with the peace and love you so richly deserve.
Thank you, Dave, for your prayerful comments. You are so right: God WILL sustain our faith and get us through this trying time with his peace and love. (Not so sure about richly deserving it, but God supplies anyway, doesn’t he?! 🙂
oooh, that boat picture, “inner life like a sea of glass.” Stunning. Thanks for these hope-drenched words and images, Nancy.
I’m delighted you found hope here, Laurie, as you face your own difficulties. Praying that today is filled with Sonshine and promise!
“Haven of Peace” seems to me to be uniquely beautiful. What a wonderful testimony! We all know God is walking with you during this trial and are sending love and prayers.
Susan Staley
Yes, God is indeed walking with us through these days of uncertainty. Thank you so much for your love and prayers. We feel them all these miles away!
Dear Nancy, I am heartbroken to hear this
But I know we serve a BIG GOD! a loving God and a faithful God- praying for healing and peace and much love❤️
Bobbi Rae
Yes, we serve a BIG GOD! Yes, he is loving and faithful! Thank you for those affirmations and for your prayers, dear Bobbi. So grateful for your love and concern.
My prayers seem awkward in comparison to these postings, but none the less heartfelt. I’ve been told that if God gets you to it, He can get you through it. Much love to you both. Mary Jo
God most certainly CAN and WILL get us through this! Since writing this post, he has informed and encouraged us in a number of ways. One example is explained in the P.S. at the end of the April 12 posting. It’s another God-incidence for sure. Thank you SO much for your love and prayers, Mary Jo!
Dear Nancy & Steve,
Love, thoughts and prayers surround you both. I remember 30 years ago when you came and prayed and anointed me with oil before I had stage 4 breast cancer surgery.. What peace and comfort was given by God as a result. I am still here serving Him after another bout 12 years ago. Haven of Peace, as you both well know is what our awesome God gives us and we always know we are in a win-win situation, whether here or with Him. You both well know Steve is in the Master Healer’s hands and care and also sends others to help and always heals however is best for us. Love and Prayers are with you, Janet Leap
Thank you, Janet, for your sweet, uplifting words. We ARE in a win-win situation, aren’t we. Praise God we CAN’T lose! And praise him for his peace and comfort!
Dear Nancy, What beautiful thoughts and assurance from God. Prayers for you and Steve. This blog was really timely for me. I was in California about 10 days ago when I got word that my sisters husband of almost 53 years had passed away after suffering from Parkinson’s Disease. He is much happier now and the family is sorrowing but not as others sorrow who have no hope. The day of the funeral, I noticed my legs felt weak walking up to the church from the parsonage. To make things short… the next morning I drove to an urgent care and they sent me to the emergency room. I was in Intensive care for 3 days and they said my hemoglobin was down to 5.3 pints. I went from hiking 6.4 miles in California to having difficulty walking 100 steps due to blood loss. I am recovering now with some very strange side affects. Things can change so quickly in ones life and we have an anchor that holds us. Praying for your family.
Sam
Thank you, Samuel, for your prayers. Now it’s my turn to pray for you that your recovery will be complete. SO appreciate your affirmation of faith in the Anchor that hold us every step of life’s journey. Great truth to hang on to!
Nancy,
I believe God has a way of preparing us for what is coming. Praying for his peace that passes understanding for you both. Praying for healing and a liver to come available. Praying for patience and comfort in the waiting.
Sending love and ((hugs)),
Bev xo
Thank you for that booster shot of strength, Bev: “God has a way of preparing us for what is coming.” I’m sitting up a little straighter, reveling in the confidence that God always makes a way. (Remember Don Moen’s song, “God Will Make a Way?” I had to look it up just now to remember all the words. SO appropriate for right now!) Thank you also for your prayers, dear Bev. We DO feel surrounded by God’s comfort, expressed through people like you!
Nancy, your smile is still there, welcoming and adorned with the knowledge of Christ and the love for your family. It’s grown even bigger just as you have grown with his love. I will continue to think of you both and pray for you both to greet the days to come with its events to present. Strength and honor to you!…and much much love! Glenda
Thank you, Glenda! Memories of your humor and plethora of talents never fail to make me smile. We are grateful for your prayers.
Nancy, please forgive me. I was interrupted while reading your post when it first went up and dashed off my reply prematurely. I’ve just read your personal news, having seen the post again on FB. Please know I’m quietly joining the prayers of the many here who love you both, believing for God’s solace in the waiting. May His healing presence enfold and hearten you both.
We ARE experiencing God’s soloace in the waiting, Laurie. Thank you for your prayers and for coming back to leave an updated comment!
Amen. Two very different types of peace. Even the second, the true Peace, is always there, always offered, but can still be so fleeting as it is up to us to allow it in and claim it. I’m not always so good at that. A wood fire does help, no matter what, though. 😏
This is an old post now. I hope that the turmoil that you were thrust into then has calmed. Life is a rough ride, that is for sure. Peace and Prayers to you, Nancy.
Thank you, KJ, for stopping by to read this particular post and leaving your kind comment. You are so right: Our Immanuel is already with us, but it’s up to us to avail ourselves of his peace and strength. God is a gentleman–he doesn’t force himself upon us. / Steve underwent transplant surgery on December 19, 2018; his fantastic medical team had him up and ready to come home on the 24th, well ahead of schedule. God sustained and blessed us through the entire process!
That’s great! Have an excellent (and Peaceful) Nativity! 💕
You too, KJ!