We find in this selection from the Sermon on the Mount one of the hardest teachings of Jesus: to love our enemies. Yet when we do this we cleanse our hearts of hate and fill them with God’s grace, so that we will be prepared to follow Christ in this life and be with Him in the next.
The words of Isaiah in the response today echo the reality of our faith as we gaze upon the Cross of Christ. May the Lord’s saving gift inspire us to offer our lives with joyful strength.
Psalm 94 expresses both the challenges of earthly life and the steadfast strength of God’s grace. May we face our obstacles today with faith that the Lord walks with us!
On this 4th of July the Psalm response can stir our hearts to action: “The Lord speaks of peace to His people.” May the peace of Christ rule our lives as we unite together…in God’s peace.
Solomon’s prayer over the newly built Temple shows us the power of a place to draw our hearts to God. May these words inspire us – at church or at home – to call upon the Lord in the places where we dwell.
The story of Joseph in the Book of Genesis recounts the power of reconciliation within a family. Joseph chooses the higher path and overcomes hatred and discord as he returns compassion toward his brothers. His example inspires us to examine our own families and actively seek opportunities to foster peace.
Jesus assures us that the Holy Spirit will be sent to bring peace to our hearts. Where do we see the need for peace in our lives today? May we turn to the Lord who longs to offer this grace to face whatever we find in the world today.
Christ offers consolation – a peace that only he can give – to our troubled and fearful hearts. Where do you see the need for God’s peace in your life today? Call upon the Lord and receive this tremendous gift of peace.