Peace. Let There Be Peace

by Br. Michael, ofm

When war ravages,

when nations dissolve,

when countries turn on each other,

 

Peace. Let there be peace.

 

When cultures clash,

when peoples see only skin color,

when communities divide,

 

Peace. Let there be peace.

 

When families separate,

when homes fall a part,

when dignity is destroyed,

 

Peace. Let there be peace.

 

When friendships breakdown,

when dialogue is shattered,

when hurt runs deep,

 

Peace. Let there be peace.

 

When my heart is anxious,

when my living feels violent,

when my ways cause brokenness,

 

Peace. Let there be peace.

 

When I am entrenched in sadness,

when I stand alone,

when I can’t hear the truth in my heart,

 

Peace. Let there be peace.

 

Jesus said: Peace I leave you,

my peace I give you,

not as the world does.

 

Peace. Let there be peace.

 

Jesus said: do not fear,

do not let your heart be troubled,

not let it be afraid.

 

Peace. Let there be peace.

 

Our world, our nation,

our communities, our homes,

our heart, ourselves

seeking…

 

Peace. Let there be peace.

 

As Remembrance Day 2021 draws near let us be attentive that peace is the desire of all people.

As we remember those who faced the tragedy of war and those who still do today;

as we remember those who deal with the outcomes of war – the poor, refugees, migrants, children;

as we remember those who hurt now because of wars past, wars now or wars within;

let us pray for peace. Peace in hearts, in homes, in nations, in the world; let there be peace.

 

We are offered this peace each day in ways far greater than we may ever know. Let the words of Jesus which promise us this peace settle into our living, let us be attentive and work for peace in the ways we can in our part of the world. Let it arise with gratitude and respect.

 

Peace. Let there be peace.

 

 

Photo Credit:  Laurentiu Iordache

November 2021