Peace Is the Presence of Christ: A Mission for Every Christian

Peace Is the Presence of Christ: A Mission for Every Christian This Homily begins with a personal story: . . . . . . the speaker’s first funeral as a newly ordained priest, which was for an only daughter lost in a tragic accident. The grieving family’s heartfelt request was for peace . . . peace for their daughter and peace for themselves. This sets the stage for a broader meditation on the Gospel reading where Jesus sends out 72 disciples, symbolizing that all Christians are missionaries, not just clergy. The Homily emphasizes that Christianity involves active participation: bringing Christ to others in daily life . . . not necessarily across seas, but to workplaces, schools, and communities. The idea of being “sent” is built into the structure of the Mass itself. Jesus sends his disciples in pairs to remind us that faith thrives in community and accountability, not in isolation. Saints like Ignatius of Loyola embodied this communal faith. Jesus’ instructions . . . travel light, greet no one . . . underscore dependence on God rather than worldly comforts. An anecdote about young soccer players illustrates how self-sufficiency can lead people to neglect God, but life’s inevitable struggles reveal our need for Him. Finally, the Homily returns to the theme of peace . . . “Peace be to this house” . . . highlighting that peace is not the absence of hardship but the presence of Christ. When we bring Christ to others, we bring peace and proclaim that the kingdom of God is at hand. The ultimate Christian mission is to bring the presence of Christ . . . true peace . . . to the world. Hear more in this Meditation piece. Listen to . . . Peace Is the Presence of Christ: A Mission for Every Christian ------------------------------------------------------------- Quote From The Homily Anything that we do that doesn’t have prayer as his foundation for us, it collapses. And that’s what our Lord Jesus Christ is telling us. Pray. And as he says that he also continues. He instructs them as you go. ------------------------------------------------------------- Jesus’ Discourse to His Disciples: French Painter: James Tissot ------------------------------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Luke 10: 1-12, 17-20 First Reading: Isaiah 66: 10-14 Second Reading: Galatians 6: 14-18