Daily Reflections ...

Reading these words we cannot but feel heartbroken.  We see daily the suffering that is being inflicted on those living in the very region Jesus was speaking to. How do we respond? How does Jesus invite us to partner with him in the face of such unthinkable violence. 

The Hebrew word for peace, ‘Shalom’ has a powerful meaning.  When you break down the translation of each Hebrew character it can be defined as: “Overcoming the authority attached to chaos.”  Peace is not a sentiment or a passive word; it’s an active word that’s filled with power.

“Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.” This famous prayer of St Francis also points towards action.  He asks to be an instrument, active and of use.  Of course, the first place we can practise peace is in our hearts and then in our homes.  In these places we can actively sow love, pardon, faith, hope, light and joy.

But when faced with events of global significance, what difference can we make?  There are three things Jesus did in this passage that we can also do.  First he looked upon Jerusalem, secondly he allowed his heart to be moved and he wept, thirdly he spoke the words that rose from deep within. We too can bear witness, allow our hearts to be softened and moved and speak out as we are led.

Lord, make us all instruments of your peace. Amen

by Christine Da Costa