Teresa Hirst

I’ve been silent, which is unlike me.

So silent that last week I thought I wanted to turn off the lights, hang a “To Be Continued. . .” sign on this front window and go away from this place I’ve written for three years.

Today, I came by for a visit myself, and I see that many of you still visit to see something. I don’t know what you’ve come to read or see, but you still come. Thank you.

I cannot think of a harder year of my life. Nor can I think of one in which I have felt more of the Savior’s peace. Truly his promise to his disciples is meant for all of us, “I will not leave you comfortless; I will come to you.” (John 14:18)

Still, I’ve learned that his peace is “not as the world giveth.” (John 14:27) Our Heavenly Father does not save us from all the unfortunate experiences of mortality. They will touch us. And I’ve also realized these are not punishments. As my husband often says, “They just are.”

So, how have I found that peace?

Whenever we get to the point of complete and utter dependence on the Lord for all that we have, and recognize his hand in everything, we also gain an abiding trust that he will always provide. That brings a peace that no worldly security can bring.

Tonight in Minnesota the snow is falling, and my family and I sang Silent Night alongside our neighbors in our public school auditorium. There are high school choirs that still sing of Christ and call this season Christmas.

He is the one who brings me peace. And he is why I can share my light again. May you find holiness and peace this Christmas and always.