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A gift of peace


Gospel
John 14:23-29
A peace the world cannot give is my gift to you

Jesus said to his disciples:

‘If anyone loves me he will keep my word,
and my Father will love him,
and we shall come to him and make our home with him.
Those who do not love me do not keep my words.
And my word is not my own:
it is the word of the one who sent me.
I have said these things to you while still with you;
but the Advocate, the Holy Spirit,
whom the Father will send in my name,
will teach you everything
and remind you of all I have said to you.
Peace I bequeath to you, my own peace I give you,
a peace the world cannot give,
this is my gift to you.
Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.
You heard me say: I am going away, and shall return.
If you loved me you would have been glad to know that I am going to the Father,
for the Father is greater than I.
I have told you this now before it happens,
so that when it does happen you may believe.’


Reflection

In this passage from the Gospel of John, Jesus reassures His disciples about the presence and peace that comes from a deep relationship with Him. He emphasizes that true love for Him is demonstrated through obedience to His words, and He promises the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, to guide and remind them of His teachings. The peace Jesus offers is not like the fleeting peace the world provides; it is a profound, enduring peace that calms our hearts amidst uncertainty.

As we navigate our own struggles and fears, Jesus invites us to trust in His presence. His promise of peace is not contingent on external circumstances but is rooted in our relationship with Him and the assurance of His love. In moments of doubt or anxiety, we are called to embrace this divine gift and remember that we are never alone.

Question for Reflection:
How can I cultivate a deeper relationship with Jesus in my daily life to experience the peace He offers?

Prayer

Dear Lord,

Thank You for the gift of Your peace, a peace that transcends all understanding. Help me to keep Your words close to my heart and to allow the Holy Spirit to guide me in every aspect of my life. May I find comfort in knowing that You are with me, even in times of trouble. Teach me to love deeply, to trust fully, and to embrace the peace that comes from You alone. 

Amen.

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