Matterofprayer: A Year of Everyday Prayers – Saturday, April 2, 2016
PEACE: Becoming More Like Jesus
I talked with students at St. Viator’s High School in Arlington Heights some days ago, in the lunch room. Anyone was free to come up to the table I had set up on one side of the large room to make a sign with their definition of PEACE.
This was a wonderful chance to talk with young people and get their viewpoints on PEACE.
First, Allison’s personal definition: “PEACE is respect for everyone and everything.”
I asked her to give me a further explanation of her statement. She said, “If you respect everyone you won’t be mean to other people or push them around. It’s important to respect everyone’s boundaries.”
As I compared the two definitions today, one immediate comparison came to me: one was the internal view of PEACE, and the other the external view. Allison gave the understanding of PEACE towards others, externally.
Second, Colleen’s personal definition: “PEACE is being surrounded by people and things that make you more like Jesus, because in Jesus we find peace.”
I wanted her to tell me more about this intriguing definition. She said, “If you’re surrounded by people or things that help you follow Jesus, then you’re more likely to do the right thing. And, more likely to have peace in the world.”
As I reflected on this second definition, and continued to compare it to the first, I kept thinking of being like Jesus. That’s an “inside job!” Becoming more and more like Jesus will help us to find peace. He told us in John 14 that He was leaving peace for us. Peace in the midst of all kinds of crap. Peace even though. Peace despite. Peace afterwards.
Dear God, thanks for such great definitions. And, thanks for helping us all to think further about PEACE. Lead us in becoming more and more like You. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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