Great places to go for comfort, peace

I love my office at the parsonage. It is a retreat for me. I’ve collected a few special things and placed them in the space. They serve a great purpose.

I love houseplants. There are eleven in this spot. One of them, a wax plant, was my grandmother’s. I’ve had it since 1988. There are a wonderful variety of others. All shapes and sizes. I’m surrounded by greenery. I liken this place to a peaceful forest.

I love tropical fish. I have an aquarium in this spot. It is actually custom made and spans eight feet. I love watching schools of fish swim from one end of the tank to the other. It is soothing for me. I liken this place to a serene lake.

I love memorabilia. I have a collection of personal historical pieces in this spot. Among them is my old salmon fishing rod and reel, my metal fly pole, my dad’s baseball glove, two of his bats and an old lamp he once had. I liken this place to a keep for the fondest of memories.

You see, my office is a lot of things. What is in there helps me to relax, quietly reflect and pray. It is also a place where I can dream and imagine — a very comfortable and peaceful spot.

Do you know of a place like this — somewhere you can go often – perhaps daily — and it will give you the benefit of renewal?

I love the Bible. There is a collection of sacred writings in this spot. True, you can find almost everything under the sun within its pages; however, the most prominent message I see in there is very good news. It is a place to find hope.

One of the most frequent messages you can find within scripture are the words “fear not,” or words that are close to them.

I liken this to a loving parent who values and cares for his or her children.

God is like this, I believe.

It is good to know you can go to this spot anytime. In doing so, may it bring you a sense of comfort and peace.

Walter is pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church and has served as parish pastor for more than 25 years.