By Les Ferguson, Jr.
Columnist
Coffee. The nectar of life. Ahhh… That first hot sip when the day is barely breaking. The light
through the windows is soft and suffused, just enough to see how to pour your coffee.
I have a usual spot in the living room where I savor that first cup, the gradually increasing
light, and the tranquility of a dawning day.
Sometimes I can hear cows in the distance, a crowing rooster, and birds beginning to sing.
Today, a big dog who identifies as a lap dog is draped across my legs.
I love the early morning peace before the phone buzzes or rings, or when the tyranny of the
urgent has not yet raised its gnarly head. I know it’s coming. I know the moment's tranquility
will eventually be upended by a deadline, a stressor, or some issue that needs to be heard
and solved.
I wish I could say that I’ve never disturbed the peace of another, but alas, such is the nature
of life in this often-broken world.
As I write this today, it is early on a Sunday morning — a day that quickly takes on an air of
urgency and purpose for a preaching minister. Not that preachers are alone in being busy and
occupied on any given Sunday, but this preacher feels a burden to speak and teach in ways
that convict, edify, encourage, and offer hope.
Why? Life can be complicated and often lacks hope and peace. Economic stressors,
addictions, job issues, troubled relationships, and struggling children — all conspire to rob us
of joy and peace, resulting in a loss of hope in the process.
Jesus certainly knew and understood the struggles humanity faces.
This is what he says in John 10:10, “A thief comes only to steal   and kill and destroy.  I have
come so that they may have life and have it in abundance.” (CSB‬‬)
The abundant life isn’t found in the abundance of possessions; it’s a life full of the hope and
peace only Jesus can give. It’s a poverty of spirit recognizing our deep need for God—one
that Jesus can and will fill abundantly. That’s worth more than anything we can acquire in this
physical world.
I hope you have quiet time when you need it. Better yet, I hope you have the peace and hope
of Jesus. The abundant life awaits!