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.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 13th Week of the Year
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As the spirit of destructive discord increases around Jesus, we see the crucial need to work for peace and unity, especially in challenging times.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 4th Week of Lent
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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.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 5th Week of the Year
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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.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 14th Week of the Year (St. Benedict)
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Catholic Inspiration Archives
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.
Mass Readings – 6th Sunday of Easter
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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.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 5th Week of Easter
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Study: Recall a time when you experienced a profound sense of peace. What made this possible?
Pray: Ask for God’s peace to touch your life and the those you love.
Serve: Consider ways you can share the peace of Christ with others. Be an instrument of peace today.
Mass Readings – 6th Sunday of Easter
I find the words of the Lord in the Gospel tremendously comforting:
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.
Not as the world gives do I give it to you.
Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.” (John 14:27)
How often do we need to hear these words! How often do we find ourselves disturbed and upset by the frustrations and fears of life?! And yet, Jesus – who knows us better than we know ourselves – consoles and comforts us with a peace that flows on the wings of the Holy Spirit from the heart of Heaven.
We crave peace: in our hearts, our homes, our work, our community. There is a tranquility that comes when we are united with one another, free from discord, doubt and misunderstanding. God’s peace empowers us to walk through the challenges of life with a quiet conviction that we will face whatever comes before us with the guidance of Christ.
Two key thoughts thus emerge:
Are there parts of my life that hunger for peace? Bring them to prayer. Are there ways that I can be an instrument of peace, in my own life and in the lives of others? Act now. God’s peace is for the asking and the Holy Spirit is present to renew us with this blessed gift.
May we leave behind our fears and anxieties, turning to Christ for the strength and guidance we need to embrace our lives with joy.
Peace be with you!
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Catholic Inspiration Archives
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Note: This post was first published on April 26, 2016.
John’s Gospel offers a beautiful reflection as Jesus invites us to trust in him when doubt, fear and anxiety overwhelm us. God is our strength and our comfort, providing us the grace we need as we follow where the Lord leads.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 4th Week of Easter
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The Gospel today shows the disciples both at work and at rest with Jesus. Finding balance in our lives can be challenging, yet when we take the long view we recognize that there are many different elements that enrich God’s gift of life.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 4th Week of the Year
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One of the best ways to face a test in school is to start with a prayer, asking the Lord for peace in our hearts. One of the best ways to face a test in life? Do the same!
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