Daily Reflection Tuesday of the Fifth Week of Easter

  “Peace be with you.” We hear this phrase at every Mass, immediately before the priest or deacon says, “Let us offer each other a sign of peace.” We all turn and wave to each other, shake hands, or share the peace sign. This rubric is something we do in every liturgy, and it is so important, yet so taken for granted. We are not just sharing a smile; we are sharing the peace of Jesus. The experience of peace is so different for each one of us. We all struggle with things that disturb our peace in our lives. For me, it is worrying about our elderly parents who seem to have more bad days than good. For new parents, it can be second guessing everything they are doing. For others, it is food insecurity, war, famine, divorce, illness, or battling an addiction. These trials seem endless and trying to surrender to peace can seem overwhelming.  
    I am often amazed by the people who appear to endure whatever comes their way with dignity and hope. They certainly have the peace of Jesus. Peace is obtained only through prayer. Jesus always went off to pray to the Father. He knew the importance of prayer and reminded us of it many times in the gospel.
    For us to obtain peace, we need Patience to deal with others; Empathy to feel what they feel; Acceptance of others as they are and love them; Compassion for the suffering or misfortune of others; Endurance to continue this journey called life. All these virtues are necessary to discover peace in our lives and share this gift with others. 
 
    Pope Francis said “Always, peace is possible! We have to seek it….Prayer is the very root of peace. Peace is always possible and our prayer is at the root of peace. Prayer disseminates peace.” Let us be like Jesus and find time for our prayer. As for me, my prayer will be for patience in dealing with my aging parents, and for empathy in dealing with those who are suffering. I will pray that I can be accepting and compassionate to all who cross my path, regardless of our differences. Lastly, I’ll pray that I have the strength to endure whatever comes my way. In today’s gospel Jesus says, “Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.” Let us go forward offering each other the sign of peace, Jesus’ peace that comes with no fear.