Hello Everyone,

Have you had a calm or a chaotic week ?

I think I’ve had a mix of the two.

I was visiting two lovely ladies in Dalmuir earlier in the week and it was a joy to see them but the journey there was less than ideal.

My usual bus was late which meant I missed the connecting bus to Clydebank so “Plan B” was to get a bus from Maryhill to Faifley, then one to Clydebank and finally another to Dalmuir.

All went well until the ticket machine on the bus broke down in Faifley therefore the passengers had to get off and wait for another bus which of course meant I missed the next connection to my destination so ended up getting a taxi.

Thankfully I eventually got there and enjoyed my time with the ladies and the provision of a giant strawberry tart which was yummy and nearly the size of my face !!

On the return journey I got caught in torrential rain which was so heavy it soaked through my brightly coloured raincoat and by the time I got home I just wanted to relax and calm down after the “travel trauma”.

I think everyone can have chaotic days and we all have ways of relaxing whether that’s listening to music, reading a book, watching a favourite television programme or chatting to family or friends.

I admit I have a weakness for reality TV and can chillout watching what is essentially throwaway television which will have no effect on my life apart from getting lost for an hour in the shenanigans of Big Brother or Love Island.

There are times when life is more difficult for people than just a delayed bus journey and we all need to find a place of calm and peace.

When I visit Gartnavel Hospital I often pop into their Sanctuary for a short time of reflection and it’s wonderful that hospitals provide these quiet spaces for patients and visitors.

Being with nature is also very therapeutic whether that’s your own garden, the park or the seashore.

On one of the hot nights last week I got up for a glass of water and looked out of the window to see a glorious full moon and the clouds moving quickly past, sometimes obscuring the light and then revealing it again, it was mesmerising, calming and a dazzling display of God’s creation and how we can be led from darkness into light.

I was shopping locally last week and saw a vehicle in the car park, it was called a “Calmbulance” it is offered by Spider Arts and provides mobile art therapy for schools and organisations.

It sounds like a marvellous resource where groups can relax and get creative.

Jesus is the finest example of a source of peace in our lives.

Who hasn’t felt better after a chat with an understanding friend and isn’t it great that Jesus is always available.

He is with us wherever we are, whatever journey we are on, whatever path we follow.

Mark 4:39: And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea “Peace! Be Still!” and the wind ceased and there was a great calm.

If Jesus can calm the turbulent sea he can comfort you in the storms of life and lead you to a place of peace.

Place your trust in him as he’s only a prayer away, bringing calm to a crisis and tranquility in times of trouble.

He isn’t called “The Prince of Peace” for nothing.

John 14:27 NIV:

Peace I leave with you ; my peace I give you.

I do not give to you as the world gives.

Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Love and Blessings to you all

Lorraine