Peace is my gift to you

Acts 14:19-28, Jn 14:27-31. Team spirit is a great motivational factor for having a hard job done with ease and accomplishing much within a little space of time. The missionary account of today's first reading presents Paul passing through a difficult time: "They stoned him… supposing him to be dead; the following day, he left with Barnabas for Derbe." Powerfully animated Christian spirit at work; they were not daunted. They forged ahead and on their way back, they strengthened the converts saying: “It is necessary for us to undergo many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.” Just as a woman forgets her labour-pains after delivery and focuses on the new born baby with joy, they "reported how they had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles." They are delighted that the Gospel is proclaimed.

We need such team spirit as members of the same family, Church, community, among friends and loved ones to move ahead and achieve great things. This is possible when we recognise in others the ability to bring healing and strength to persons around us who seem weak and vulnerable or have experienced rejection. Along with bravery, we are also called to promote peace. This ability comes from Jesus our Lord who came to bring peace to our troubled hearts. Along with bravery, we are also called to promote peace. This means forgiving others, accepting our differences and promoting peace. His words in today's Gospel remain, “Peace is my gift to you. Do not be afraid.” Jesus preached peace throughout His life by words and works. The peace of Christ is more than the peace desired by the world: a peace sought by the mere absence of wars and securities from anxieties and aggressions. This is our mission: to become instruments of peace of Christ in the world.

May the Lord heal our world, renew our strength and pour His dew on our dryness! Amen!! Stay safe and save life!!!