PEACE I GIVE YOU
Have
you experienced being in the presence of a dying loved one, or someone
familiar to you? If the person is still conscious, they would want to
say some final words of wisdom, encouragement and hope.
For Jesus, in the Upper Room, on the night before He dies, He is
very much aware of His impending death and the sadness of His disciples.
With words of hope and encouragement, He musters their courage in the
hours to follow. And the word He gives them is “peace.”
Jesus says that this peace is not as the world gives, but in a deeper sense of well-being, wholeness and completeness — “shalom.”Jesus
gives it as a gift. He is aware of the doubts, fears and anxieties in
their hearts and minds. Jesus shares His final meal with them, washes
their feet, teaches and prays for them in His final hours on earth. He
knows the need for peace at this time. He assures them that He will be
away for a short time but nothing will be lost; He will return.
Similarly, at the dying moment of our loved ones, we need those words of
peace.
In a world that is shattered by violence and unending turmoil, we are
in desperate need of peace. Only Jesus can give us that peace. The world
gives us peace by advertising to the thirsty society the need to buy
material things so that all will be well. What lies! True lasting peace
is not found anywhere on this earth; perhaps in small quantities, but it
is not lasting. Jesus is our Peace. In this season of Easter, we are
reminded of the truth that Jesus is our lasting peace.
Where is peace lacking in your life? Seek the Lord in prayer today and
pray for the gift of peace. May the Risen Lord grant you the fruit of
His glorious life now through peace in your heart and mind. Turn to
Jesus now and receive from Him the peace that surpasses all
understanding. Fr. Brian Steele, MGL
REFLECTION QUESTION: Reflect on relationships, events and issues in your life now. Are they peaceful?
Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace. Amen. (St. Francis of Assisi)
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