Where Does Your Peace Come From?

Several years ago, we went on our first mission trip. The place was Costa Rica. It was a life-changing experience; however, I remember telling my husband during that week that I wasn’t cut out for this. I remember being so relieved when we got home. I had learned to appreciate what I took for granted. I saw families experience happiness even though they basically had nothing. I experienced the love of Jesus in that place. No question. The thing was, I just didn’t think I could do it again — ever.

But here I am, packing for a trip to the Dominican. We are going with a different group, but they have the same purpose — to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

I admit I’m a little nervous. There have been 9 reported American deaths in the D.R. A part of me wants to cancel, but a part wants me to stick with it. So, here we are…

I recently sat with a senior saint from our church. After she walked me around her back yard, showing me her beautiful flowers, she started talking about her family.

She said they are “crazy fun” to be around. She paused, then she mentioned that one of her daughters died several years ago. She was one of the healthiest kids — always eating right and exercising. Unfortunately, she found out she had cancer and died a few months later.

This senior saint looked up at me and asked, “Do you believe that God determines how many days we will live on this earth?” She then added, “I do, and that’s what gives me peace about my daughter.”

It gives her peace knowing that God is in control.

What a blessing her visit was. She has no clue how much I needed to hear those words, but God…..

“Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand–when I awake, I am still with you.” Psalm 139:16-18