Glory to God

“Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will towards men.”
-Luke 2:14

For many years now this line has been my absolute favorite lines in the Christmas story.
Enthroning God & having peace… what a perfect combination. 

Some days my soul sings this. And others its a petition. And other I say it to remind myself. Glory to God in the highest… there is no clause that says “only if things are going well.” 

Glory to God at all times, all places, and in every situation. 

Psalms 23: 1-6

The LORD is my Shepherd, I shall not want. 
He makes me lie down in green pastures, 
He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul. 
He guides me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake. 
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, 

I will fear no evil, for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life,
And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

Psalms 23: 1-6

Some nights, all I can do is say this passage of scripture over and over again. 

It keeps my emotions as bay, 

my thoughts quieted, and the voices in my head silenced enough so I can breath. As close to peace as I can achieve in chaos. Enough silence to sleep. My own form of the Jesus Prayer. Tears or no tears, my lips move and my voice says this passage. 

Lord, hear my cries. 

Calm the storm within me.

Peace that passes understanding.