Last Sunday I preached about collective, relational peace—and I used the eating habits of the unicellular stentor as an example of individual energies combined and magnified for the greater good. One of my favorite things about preaching is continuing the conversation once the sermon is done, and after the service on Sunday I was approached by a visitor who told me that a similar collective process happens with the formation of stars.

Apparently, (and a quick online search reinforces this), stars begin with cosmic dust. The dust responds to gravitational pull, and the more dust coalesces, the greater that pull becomes. Stardust attracts more stardust. This stardust combines with atmospheric gasses, forming what’s known as “stellar nurseries.” The positive energy cycle grows and grows until the gravitational force becomes so great that the collective mass folds in on itself, concentrates, ignites, and becomes a star…..

When we think about peace, we often picture a serene landscape, a quiet moment, or a calm demeanor. The peace that God offers us is not dependent on our circumstances. It’s not about the absence of trouble, but the presence of Christ. It’s about trusting in God’s sovereignty, even when life is chaotic and uncertain.

During our trials and tribulations, we can experience God’s peace. It’s a peace that doesn’t make sense to the world. It’s a peace that transcends human understanding. It’s a peace that guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

When we’re anxious, we’re told to pray and present our requests to God. This should be done with thanksgiving, because thanksgiving is an expression of trust. It’s a way of saying, “God, I believe that you’re in control….

My son Zachary shared this story with me recently: last weekend, during the gorgeous Spring weather (especially appreciated by all after the days of rain that preceded it!), he decided to take a book to Central Park to read and people-watch in the sun. The park was crowded, but the vibes were good. Everyone was enjoying the liberating feeling of being outside.

Zachary made himself at home on a bench, comfortable with his iced coffee and his reading material. People rotated through inhabiting the empty spaces on either side of where he was sitting. Eventually, a couple approached the bench next to him. They were carrying paper bags with food from a deli and getting ready to share some al fresco brunch and conversation. But before they sat down one of them said, “Wait! Let’s see who we’re spending time with today.”….