Calm in the Storm

One recent Sunday, we prayed these words at church:  "Oh God of peace, keep us from a mindless acceptance of things as they are. Let us all know that at the heart of change and turbulence there is an inner calm that comes from faith in you, and that from this central heart of peace, there may flow a creative compassion, a thirst for justice, a relentless proclamation of your love, and a willingness to give of ourselves in the Spirit of Christ...."  It seems as if we can easily get caught up in the turbulence of change, the deep valley of worry or the loud din of drama.  Yet, if we think about it, the better place is to be centered in a state of calmness. Only then, I believe, when we are free of agitation, distraction and disturbance can we truly feel blessed and open ourselves to being a blessing to others.