My trips south to visit my friend Brenda are always in some ways a "retreat" for me. There are many pleasurable, entertaining, and fun activities which I enjoy. It is also a time when I have much quiet, and contemplative time with the Lord.

It is a cool, crisp, early morning here in Morganton, NC. I am sitting on the deck that faces east, quietly enjoying a beautiful sunrise. I can hear the water of the Johns River below as it ripples over the rocks and see and hear the chirping of a variety of birds fleeting from tree to tree. Spring is showing her face with some of the beautiful azaleas in bloom, and irises are popping out in the yard. These things help me to unwind; to be quiet and to appreciate Christ's Presence in my midst.

I began the morning reading today's devotion from Sara Young's Jesus Calling, "Enjoying Peace in His Presence." (p115) Do not be afraid, for I am with you. Hear me saying, 'Peace, be still,' to your restless heart. No matter what happens, I will never leave you or forsake you. Let this assurance soak into your mind and heart until you overflow with Joy. Though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, you need not fear."

Ps 46:10 Be still and know that I am God! I am exalted among nations, I am exalted in the earth.

More from Sarah's devotion: The media relentlessly proclaims bad news; for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A steady diet of their fare will sicken you. Instead of focusing on fickle, ever-changing news broadcasts, tune into the living Word - the One who is always the same.

Too often I focus on cable news channels, to the point of obsession. In my favorite corner of the porch, sitting on the glider I am able to get away from the constant, shattering and depressing news stories and events, making an effort to "be still" and listen to the "Good News."

Sarah goes on to say: Let Scripture saturate your mind and your heart and you will walk steadily along the path of Life. Even though you don't know what will happen tomorrow, you can be absolutely sure of your ultimate destination.

I hold you by your right hand and afterward I will take you into Glory.

I want to thank Pastors Dan and Becky for providing those five wonderful programs during the Wednesdays of Lent on "Music, Scripture, Prayer, Service and Witness". The one on Reading Scripture comes to mind now. If you were present for that Wednesday program, you may recall "Read, Meditate, Pray, Contemplate." These four words have helped me saturate my mind and my heart with God's Presence and his Word.

Mk:4-39 Nevertheless I am continually with you; you hold my right hand, And you guide me with counsel and afterward received me with honor.

Lord and Master of my life, help me to keep my heart and mind open to your word. Hold me tightly with you right hand, provide me with wisdom in my everyday decisions, guide me to be steadfast in your ways and when you call me home, receive me in glory. Amen.

Contributed by Joyce
Monday May 04, 2015
Liturgical Year B: Week 23
Liturgical Color: White
Sunday Gospel reading: Easter5
Fifth Sunday in Easter Sunday