"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." (John 14:27)

As part of a contest, a number of artists were invited to paint a picture of perfect peace. Eventually, the judges narrowed their choice to two entries. The first contestant created a scene of a quiet lake high in the mountains. The second one depicted a thundering waterfall above which the branch of a birch tree was bending. On the fork of that limb and in the gentle spray, a robin sat undisturbed in her nest. Both paintings were equally beautiful and spoke of tranquility, but the second won the prize. It showed by contrast, and in graphic detail, the absolute calmness that can be found in the midst of turbulent surroundings.

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (Phil. 4:7)