In the storms of life, both personal and collective, we’re often quick to panic, acting impulsively and irrationally. We see this all around us—in our communities, our institutions, and even within ourselves. Fear drives us to cling to what we can see, measure, or control, but these things are temporary. What we don’t understand is that although we may panic in times of stress and distress, God does not share our panic. As we navigate uncertainty, we need a deeper anchor, a steady presence that grounds us in times of turmoil. Let’s pause, resist the urge to act out of fear, and seek the calm that comes from holding steady to enduring values and an unchanging foundation. In stillness, we find resilience and a clearer perspective, reminding us to act thoughtfully, not out of panic.
May we find peace in the midst of turmoil,
trusting that even when we panic,
there is a steady presence guiding us through every storm.
(inspired by Barbara Clementine Harris, Parting Words)