Peacemakers

“My own peace I give you … Do not let your heart be troubled or afraid” (John 14:27).

As midnight approached, I was still pondering these words. I had returned home quite late after waiting for the police. One of the mothers with whom I work was attacked and beaten on her way out the door of the Soup Kitchen where I serve.

“My own peace I give you.” What do I do with this gift of God’s peace? How do I give it and share it amidst the violence of our times?

“My own peace I give you.” How does my life witness the Adrian Dominican Sisters’ commitment to non-violent peacemaking and right relationships? How do I protest, challenge violence and disagree and yet treat each person with respect?

“My own peace I give you.” Do I automatically take sides or am I willing to be a bridge—working to bring people together?

“My own peace I give you.” Do I challenge violence with fear or a troubled heart? Am I willing to take risks for the sake of peace? All of us want peace. Many of us pray for peace. This year, large numbers of Adrian Dominicans have walked for peace, written letters for peace, called legislators about peace, but what is missing? How do we put an end to strife, quench hatred, and overcome vengeance? How do we empower people to live God’s law of love? How do we put fresh heart into the pursuit for peace? Or do the causes of war linger in my own heart also?

Every evening, the children and teens with whom I work wish me peace. (Let me assure you that there is not yet a peaceable kingdom on the east side of Detroit.) They don’t have all the skills yet or effective examples on how to manage conflict, but these children want to be peacemakers.

How badly do we want to be peacemakers? Maybe letters, calls, walks, and witnesses are too easy. Is our Vision, “Make Peace,” just a slogan, or is it a very sacred call to prayer, presence, and action?

Could God’s peace be asking for radical changes in my very life? Do my choices, my words, my actions confront violence and make a commitment to peace each day?

God’s peace is powerful and changes hearts. Am I afraid of the power of peace? Could I give over my entire life to a vision of God’s peace? Instead of just speaking for peace and writing for peace, is God asking me to make peacemaking an urgent priority of mission and life?

“My own peace I give you.” What will I do with this gift? Where can I build a bridge? How can I pass on the peace that Christ offers? Is there a person waiting for the blessing of my peace?