the master's piece of peace
"As you enter his home bless it." —Matthew 10:12
In His last will and testament, Jesus left us, His disciples, shalom-peace (Jn 14:27). This is not exactly what we mean by "peace" today. Jesus left us shalom, that is, godly order and harmony. As Jesus' disciples, we can put together the pieces of our lives in a divinely ordained harmony, which is truly an exquisite masterpiece of God's creation.
By God's grace, we not only receive God's shalom-peace but also have the privilege to share with the Lord in making this peace (Mt 5:9). We do this especially by sharing in Jesus' sufferings (see Phil 3:10), for shalom-peace is made "through the blood of His cross" (Col 1:20).
Finally, we are not only recipients and makers of shalom-peace but also givers of peace. As members of the Church gifted by Jesus with peace, we can bless people, homes, neighborhoods, and workplaces with shalom (Mt 10:12). If those to whom we offer peace are receptive, then shalom will come to them (Mt 10:13). Otherwise, it will return to us (Mt 10:13).
Be men and women of shalom-peace in every way. Be disciples of Jesus, our Peace (Eph 2:14).
Prayer: Father, take the pieces of my life and make a masterpiece of peace.
Promise: "I drew them with human cords, with bands of love; I fostered them like one who raises an infant to his cheeks; yet, though I stooped to feed My child, they did not know that I was their Healer." —Hos 11:4
Praise: Rather than add to the gossip and slander being experienced in her parish, Amanda made a conscious effort to build bridges of peace between quarreling factions.
Reference: (For a related teaching, order our tape on Shalom on audio AV 82-3 or video V-82.)
Nihil Obstat: Reverend Robert A. Stricker, December 13, 2003
Imprimatur: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, December 18, 2003