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: St. Augustine, a martyr, epitomizes many killed in China for their Catholic Faith. In all, the Church honors 120 Chinese martyrs who perished between 1648 and 1930.
Reference: (For a related teaching on Shalom, order, listen to, or download our CD 82-3 or DVD 82 on our website.)
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