In today’s first reading we see how powerful Saint Paul’s mission was. Though he was persecuted many times he came back much stronger and preached the Good News going from city to city and encouraging the followers of Christ. In the Gospel proclamation, Jesus is pouring his peace into the hearts of the disciples. The same peace is given to us through our baptism in the Holy Spirit. The peace he gives us is not what the world defines as “absence of war”. His peace gives us perfect rest amid turmoil, problems and fear. Even when we are rejected and persecuted we can have perfect joy within us if we have the Lord’s peace. As a community we are journeying towards God’s kingdom and we carry this peace amid our people. Let us hold on to our Father who rules over all nations and rest in his promises because he can turn darkness into light. Let us sing like the psalmist trusting our God: “May my mouth speak the praise of the Lord, and may all flesh bless his holy name forever and ever.”

Prayer: Abba Father, we thank and praise you for sending your Holy Spirit and filling us with everlasting peace. Amen.