Reflection for the 6th Sunday of Easter- 2022

Written on: May 18, 2022

First Reading: Acts 15:1-2, 22-29
Psalm: 67:2-3, 5, 6, 8
Second Reading: Revelation 21:10-14, 22-23
Gospel: John 14:23-29

Written by: Sr. Karen Marie Voltz, GNSH

We are so familiar with so many of the Scripture readings during the Liturgical Year. They are the same ones we have heard repeatedly. But, as we read or listen to them anew- we are at a different age, time, or situation in our lives. Now familiar passages seem alive and speak out to our ears and heart!

In the readings for the Sixth Sunday, one passage spoke out to me as never before. I could almost hear Jesus saying:

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives, do I give it to you.”  John 14:27

What was Christ saying? What does it mean to me now in 2022, in my ministry, in my own spirituality? The following are my ponderings.

Christ gives us an inner-peace that flows from our faith in Him.

 To the world, there is peace only when there are no conflicts, tensions, struggles, or sufferings. However, that is not true for Christ’s peace. We can experience His peace in any circumstance, and at any time of our lives!

Christ’s peace can co-exist with resignation to a terminal illness. Or it can be experienced, when every effort has been tried to heal a relationship, which is still fragmented. His peace was known by many during months of covid-isolation—a peace of acceptance. This peace of Christ is a gift, and a grace. It is supernatural and unexplainable. St. Paul tells us: “…the peace of God surpasses all understanding …” [Philippians 4:7]

My ministry is to people in nursing homes, or to those homebound, diminished by age or illness. They live alone, are in pain, or on chemo. Life is very difficult, and all are very lonely. Some pray the rosary continuously. They are radiant when I give them Eucharist. Many often speak of being ready to go to God whenever and however He wills.

They are at peace, a peace the world does not understand, as it is Christ’s peace.

 God’s peace influences who we are; prayerful, grateful, positive, uncomplaining. Those I visit are often in pain, using walkers or wheel chairs, dependent on oxygen, no longer driving, nor self-sufficient. Their peace flows from a faith, like St. Marguerite d’Youville’s, in a loving Provident God. A God who will provide all the graces needed to be at peace. Our Grey Nuns give witness to this peace- to me and to so many others- in how they live and how they die! So, too, do the people I interact with in my ministry.

May the Peace of Christ be with all!

Click here to download a printable copy: Reflection for 6th Sunday of Easter

Cover photo courtesy of  Harli Marten/Unsplash

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