Moments of Peace

Jena Muhr writes about noticing moments of peace and sharing that peace with others in our lives.  

Over the summer, my husband and I welcomed our fourth child into the world. As you can imagine, things have been pretty busy ever since. With three school-aged kids and a newborn, things are not always easy, relaxing, or peaceful.   

Over the past few weeks, I’ve been trying to be cognizant of moments of peace that come up during the day — kind of like counting my blessings, but instead, looking for the moments God gives me that are peaceful. They don’t have to be big moments, but they deserve recognition each day.   

Living in the Moment  

Sometimes without meaning to, we can easily fill our days with the many goings-on of life: sports, homework. and work. But if I look hard enough, there are always moments when home, kids, and life are at peace. Here are a few I have experienced recently:  

Watching a movie with the kids during our Friday-night pizza and movie night, an event we all look forward to. It is a time to unwind and relax a little at the end of a busy week. Feeling peace.  

When the big kids are all going to sleep and I’m feeding the baby once last time. The house is slowing down and we’re getting ready to relax for the night. Feeling peace.   

Sitting down to dinner as a family and everyone likes what is for dinner. Feeling peace.  

At church, for the briefest of moments when everyone is sitting quietly and paying attention, maybe. At least they’re sitting quietly. Feeling peace.   

When I get into bed and count my blessings before sleep comes. Feeling peace.   

In the early-morning hours before the house wakes up. Listening to the kids quietly snore in their beds and dream of adventures the day will bring. Feeling peace.   

Reading a book on the porch, or even when all the kids are reading books together without arguing. Feeling peace.  

Finding God's Peace  

Many of these moments seem to happen when babies are asleep, and that is the season that I’m in right now. You might find different times of peace in your day.   

As Catholics we are told to rest in God’s peace, in His embrace; we know that we will find peace through Him. As a mom I am often the one who is acting as God’s vessel and embracing my kids and husband. This can come through my words or actions or simply being present with them.   

Giving Peace to Others  

Listening to the goings-on of the day, offering a hug or words of encouragement that can help and support. Giving peace.   

Kissing a boo-boo and putting on a band-aid. Giving peace.   

Preparing an extra snack or sandwich when you know it is going to be a long day. Giving peace. 

Baking cookies because you know that it’s their favorite. Giving peace.   

Doing the dishes to give someone else the night off. Giving peace.   

Taking the kids to practice so your spouse can stay at home and have a few minutes to themselves. Giving peace.  

You can give peace, and you can receive peace. You can always feel when it is gone but it is not as quickly noticed. Peace is a gift God gives us to show us His love, and by showing God’s love to each other, we can share peace. 

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Copyright 2025 Jena Muhr
Images: Canva