I’ve got the peace that passes understanding
Down in my heart, (where?)
Down in my heart, (where?)
Down in my heart,
I’ve got the peace that passes understanding
Down in my heart, (where?)
Down in my heart to stay.
(‘I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy’)
I wonder how many of us sang those words in Sunday School growing up. Maybe we meant them then, but I wonder how many of us would struggle to sing these words sincerely today. Anxiety was on the rise in our nation way before Covid-19; stress was an ever growing problem and increasing numbers of people were struggling with a variety of mental health issues. And today, in the midst of what we are currently facing, more people than ever are confronted with feelings of anxiety and stress, with low mood and a sense of hopelessness.
“COVID-19 restrictions have, as I’ve spoken about every day I have stood here, and as everybody is experiencing – these restrictions are affecting all of our lives. People who may never before have been affected by mental health issues, may now experiencing emotional distress – that could be due to financial hardship, bereavement and the isolation that comes with social distancing.” (Nicola Sturgeon – 14th April 2020)
This week:
As a society we are more and more aware of this. Last Sunday we reflected on the hope that is presented to us through the resurrected Christ and over the coming weeks we are going to think about what God has to say about our mental wellbeing. This coming Sunday we will be considering how we find peace in trouble times. And we would love to hear from you on this too – whether it is a reply to this email, tagging us in something on social media, or adding a comment when we go live on YouTube for QPLive on Sunday morning – do you have thoughts, helpful Bible verses or questions on this topic.