Awakened to the Generous Peace of Christ 

                       – Br. Michael, ofm

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives.

Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.” – John 14.27

 

“I do not give to you as the world gives.” This one little line echoes in my ears and I am grateful. I am grateful that the generosity and peace of Christ are beyond what I imagine and beyond the attempts that we try to establish. Our efforts in living a Christian life are always a desire to reflect Christ, which in itself is noble and worthy. Beyond our noble and worthy attempts and efforts I believe the true generosity and peace of Christ which is refining and purifying is woven into the ordinary. I believe that we catch glimpses of it in our daily lives.

 

Where have you encountered the generosity and peace of Christ?

On a walk? Watching the trees bud out?

Pausing in prayer? Listening to a friend?

At table? Reading scripture? Sipping tea?

Making a pot of soup? In music? With a hug?

 

Our God comes to us in the ordinary so that we may begin to understand that the giving of God which is beyond our comprehension is indeed a daily encounter. One which leads to peace. One which allows us to let go of the troubles we so often let consume our hearts. One which reminds us that fear is not to be our ordinary rather peace hope, transformation and new life are our norms.

 

Christ Risen is among us, offering God’s peace and assuring us his Spirit continually awakens us to these blessings. Let us be attentive this week.