Today is a day of celebration--a victory for the Pond household! As I write this email, my wife and son are at the store, picking out the victory prize--a toy truck that can fill, haul, scoop and dump (some assembly required, batteries not included).

"What's the occasion?" you may ask. It's been five days without Thomas!

I know. This needs some explaining. When Caleb was born just over four years ago, my brother gave him this green, stuffed duck. Each night for the past four and half years, this treasured possession has been his friend, confidant and sleeping buddy. He loved that duck so much that he named him Thomas.

Last week, we decided to work on this duck dependency issue, or as we called it, "The Thomas Complex." We created a duck chart, and if he could go five days and nights without Thomas, then we would give him a reward. And today is officially: "Five Days Without Thomas."

I share this story because I can relate in many ways to my son, Caleb. I had lots of comfort zones and safety nets that I clinged to in the midst of my anxiety and panic--things like cell phones, friends and medication. They were my comfort, my security, my confidence. But, they provided no real peace.

Then, I met Jesus. I can't even begin to tell you all of the things he has done for me. It brings me to tears just thinking about this new life he has given me--a life full of peace, full of confidence, full of hope. He has changed me. I have been transformed by his power, his promises and his peace. But, Jesus didn't just give me peace--he became my peace. He is my peace.

So many people talk about church and religion. These things are fine, but they will not give you true peace. For some people, these things may only be a "Thomas"--an empty, lifeless attempt at security and peace. Faith, on the other hand, requires a one-on-one relationship with your Father in heaven. That's what makes the difference.

You can follow all the rules and regulations required by religion, but it won't give you peace. In fact, those requirements, in many ways, create more fear and anxiety. True peace comes when you have that deep, intimate fellowship with your heavenly Father.

"Well, aren't rules and regulations important when it comes to God?" Yes, they are. But, your desire to follow them should be birthed out of your love for God, not a fear of punishment or wrath. How would I know if my son loved me if I pounced on his every mistake, punishing him in my anger? I don't want to be his judge. I want be his father.

God really does love you as his child. He loves you unconditionally. There is nothing you've done that he can't forgive. He is ready to receive you with his arms open wide. He longs to spend time with you. He rejoices over you and enjoys lavishing his love on you. I encourage you to spend some time with your Father.

Blessings!

Russell

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|  Russell Pond     <><
|  Season of Peace
|  email:  ponder@season.org
|  web:    http://www.season.org

© Russell Pond 1999
Reprinted with permission