Day 30

Tuesday, May 5, 2015-Cinco de Mayo

The Abbey of Gethsemani

The scripture readings at Mass were from the Gospel of John and the Acts of the Apostles.   Jesus promised his disciples that he would leave them an advocate, his Presence, the Holy Spirit.  Jesus promises his disciples and us the gift of his peace.

In Hebrew, the word for peace is Shalom.  Shalom is the peace that comes from God.  This is the peace that transcends the circumstances of life.  This is the peace that Christ promises us.

The Peace of Christ is an internal calm.  When Christ controls our life, our actions reflect his love and compassion.  Most of the struggles we encounter come from within.  Contemplatives called this the False Self. These are the “demons” we have not dealt with honestly.  They are the wounds from childhood.  They are the hurts and pains that we project on to orthers.  Only through prayer and total submission to Christ’s reshaping of our lives can we rid ourselves of the false self and obtain the peace that passes all understanding.  it is a lifelong journey.  That is why the Psalms ask us to be still and know that I am God.

Jesus said: Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you.  (John 14:27a).

I count it all joy,

Pastor Vallerie