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Good morning. Awake or asleep, those who were caught up in the dreadful events in Westminster on Wednesday will still be able to hear the sirens wailing, those gun shots, policemen calling and sounds of abject panic.  There’s a clear determination that our democratic way of life is not going to be compromised by this attack.
Humans are sociable creatures who live in community.  When that community is attacked, we feel as if we all have something to say about it.  Whether we actually listen or not is another matter – we just need to say it.
Sometimes, though – there is a quietness we must seek in the eye of the storm if we are to keep our balance.  The prophet Isaiah wrote about it in the midst of turbulent times centuries ago: In quietness and confidence shall be your strength.  
I once visited a castle built on a small lump of rock in the Rhine.  Obviously, it was easy to defend, since it was surrounded by water.  To be laid under siege was another matter though.  This is where the castle’s secret came into play – a well dug down through the floor of the castle to a spring below the level of the river bed.  Come hell or high water – or even low water for that matter – nobody in that castle would ever go thirsty.  The source of their life-giving water was deep down and secure.
Dear God, we pray today for those rocked by recent events in London.  For those who mourn, and others who go about their work with heavy hearts.  Especially for those who find the ensuing noise all too much – we pray for peace. Amen