Week of November 5, 2001
Amy M.

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid."
     John 14:27

This passage was the Scripture passage that my pastor and congregation in Ridgewood New Jersey dedicated to me on my confirmation quite some time ago. Echoes of this passage have come back to comfort me during these past days of "Anthrax in Hamilton Township", and "possible terrorists in Trenton." It is so easy to get very nervous in these times, when we constantly hear that we are "at war." Even before these national developments, studies have shown that Americans suffer from depression and anxiety -- more so than peoples of other nations. The words of "Peace" are words that I personally am longing to hear. My faith is very much affirmed when I discover and rediscover them in Scripture. There is no better place for us to look if we want to experience how much value each human being, and each living creature, has in God's sight. Jesus' words, "I do not give as the world gives" is a bold reminder that God works in ways that are often hidden, or even contrary, to human ways. God sees what we do not see. God gives in ways that we do not always recognize. When I focus my thoughts on the promise of peace that Jesus gives, all of a sudden I am more easily able to shed my suspicions of other people. I am more capable of reaching out even to those I do not know. With the promise of God's peace, I no longer need to put my hopes in vaccines or victories. Whatever private or public anxiety we might have, whatever grief regret that we house and experience in these troubling times, Jesus can indeed take into himself and transform through his words of peace.

Lord, thank you for offering us something that nothing in this world can bring -- your peace, your Life, your promises. Thank you for accepting us with all our anxieties, regrets and doubts. Help us to reach out in confidence to others who are, indeed, loved by you. Amen.

Contributed by Amy M.
Published Monday November 5, 2001
Week 50 of Liturgical Year C