Devotion - Monday, February 7

"There is no peace, says my God, for the wicked." Isaiah 57:21

I read these words this morning in the comfort of my living room, a cup of coffee giving off its aroma. I am still a bit tired this morning; it has been a marathon week of retreats and conferences and travel. But I turned to my Bible and my prayers with the confidence that this has been a great week for campus ministry in the southeast. There is in my life a peace; a peace which passes all understanding.

It is not my place to speak of the wicked - I will leave that to God. But as I read Isaiah's words I wondered about those who choose the path of evil. My perception is that they must constantly be looking over their shoulder, wondering if past acts will catch up to them. My concern for them is that they never have the leisure of trusting that someone else (God) will provide what they cannot accumulate. I do not intend to heap burning coals on their heads as I contemplate where, if ever, there is peace in their lives.

The student retreat was all about Grace. It was about God's grace toward us and about experiencing grace in our lives. It was a reminder that the thing we most need comes to us as a gift from God. It is the gift which makes it possible for us to be a peace - with ourselves, with one another, with the world, and with God. That which we need the most is a gift; it is given to us.

I cannot speak for the wicked - I will hear their response. But the peace in my life is there as a result of the One to whom I turn in prayer and in appreciation. The peace of God which fills my heart is the marvelous peace of God.