Miracles of Peace

At the start of our camping season, it was easy to feel disappointed.  Our neighbours' complete lack of respect or regard for anyone but themselves was shocking.  After a particularly frustrating series of events, my husband and I realized something had to be done.  For as much as we try to live at peace with everyone, our campsite was anything but peaceful.
Mark put a call into the camp owner to discuss our concerns and see if there was a possible solution.  While waiting to hear from Mark, I fought to keep my thoughts in check.  I kept thinking how unfair all this was.  We are decent people who really try to live a life that pleases and honours God.  We were so looking forward to camping this year and having a place of peace and rest for our family.  God knew how much we needed this so why didn't he do something to protect us?  As my thoughts swirled, anger filled my heart and my disappointment with our camping situation quickly turned to disappointment with God. 
Maybe it was because the beauty of his creation was all around me, or maybe it was because I chose to allow the Holy Spirit to soften my heart, but thankfully I recognized the direction my thoughts were taking me and I quickly turned them around.  I even found myself starting to thank Jesus for providing Mark and I with an opportunity to help our kids navigate their way through conflict and opposition.
It's amazing how quickly changing my thoughts, changed my perspective and I found myself praying for our neighbours; for their heart, souls and lives.
I even found myself considering the possibility that we were placed beside them for a reason; to be a witness and an example of the kind of true love and peace in any circumstance that can only come from Jesus Christ.
A day after Mark spoke to him, the owner called to say that there was a spot available in another area of the campground.  We decided to take it and so 3 days later we made the move.
We now have a very peaceful site, backing onto the woods, with quiet neighbours on both sides.
I still think about our old neighbours and pray for them daily.  Miracles don't always happen over night but they do happen.  Time will tell.  God only knows where their life journey will take them.  But I am thankful He opened my heart to their needs and I am confident He will use our brief interactions for something good.....maybe even a miracle!

Satisfy me in the morning O Lord with your love. 

May my children see miracles again. 

Let them see your glory God at work.  Psalm 90:14,16