Finding God’s Peace
What an incredible couple of weeks it’s been. For someone who works for the University, life usually slows down a bit in June and July because the students in Bloomington have mostly left and the summer academic sessions don’t seem as fast-paced. But that’s not my experience in my auxiliary unit with the Alumni Association.
At a time when many people are starting to settle down and take family vacations, I’m feeling decidedly less peaceful. The last two weeks have been even more so as I began my official duties at First United. Preparing for my first congregational meeting and council meeting were all but peaceful, but using some prayer, music, and the support of my First United Family, I finished those meetings exhilarated and happy to play my part in these activities. But getting there is hard. If you know me at all, you’ll not be surprised that playing or hearing music settles my mind and heart – and that’s what I did.
There are two very different types of music that offer me comfort in times like these: Boston and the Old 100th. Anytime I’m nervous, frazzled, or anxious (to get on an airplane or speak in front of people for instance) I sing some version of the Old 100th over and over….”Praise God from whom all blessings flow” or “Be present at our table God” are two of the many lines I use as a mantra for finding the Peace I need. The second tune is from one of my favorite 80s bands, Boston. “Peace of Mind“ has the perfect lyrics: “People living in competition – all I want is to have my peace of mind.” I also play or sing that one continuously to console my worried heart (let’s just say it gets a little louder than the Doxology).
Wouldn’t it be fun to do a mash up of these two songs? “All I want is to praise God from whom all blessings flow.“
Rebecca Keith, Church President
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