Read Acts 14:19-28, Ps. 145:10-13a,21, John 14:27-31
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27)
In our Gospel passage today, we hear Jesus talking to us about Peace and he specifically mentions that the peace which he wants us to have is different from the peace that the world can afford. This is the peace that keeps you going no matter the trials and difficulties you experience. Hence the moment Jesus says he wants to give us this peace, he immediately went on to say: “Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
Paul is a classic example of a person who had this type of peace. Although he was stoned by his fellow Jews and dragged out of the city and the people assumed he was dead, the following day, he regained consciousness and went back to the same town from which was dragged out “strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.”
How can we possibly accept the many tribulations that are part of the road to heaven? The only solution is for us to have this inner peace. Peace of mind is such a vital ingredient for us to move successfully on this road to heaven. When we have this peace, nothing is difficult for us. The persecutions we have to face from satan and forces of darkness become light and we are just able to handle our trials like Paul did. We are ready for anything and determined to continue to serve God forever.
Let us pray: Lord Jesus, fill our hearts with your peace so that we may never be discouraged by trials. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. (Tuesday of the 5th week of Eastertide. Bible Study: Acts 14:19-28, Ps. 145:10-13a,21, John 14:27-31)
© Rev. Fr. Evaristus Abu