First Reading: Acts 14:19-28
Psalm 145
Gospel: John 14:27-31

In the first reading of today we see Paul and Barnabas proclaiming the Good news to the Gentiles. Some of the leading Jews, however, became jealous and angry against them. They stoned Paul to death and left him thinking that he was dead. But he miraculously got up and the next day, he was at work again proclaiming the Good News. Paul and Barnabas continued preaching and wherever they went, they encouraged the believers not to be afraid. They told them:  “It is through many persecutions that we must enter the kingdom of God”. They appointed and empowered leaders to keep their faith and serve their church faithfully. All of us are part of the church and are called to fulfill the services its needs.
In the Gospel Jesus said to his disciples: “ Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives”. I want to share just a few thoughts based on the Gospel of today. Certainly, the peace that comes from the Lord is always  special, better and unique. It is peace in the heart that refreshes our whole being. We need it especially in this time that we are challenged by many unprecedented events that affect us both internally and externally. Surely it is a time of uncertainty, but we do know that the God who led us thus far, will not abandon us now. God draws straight on crooked lines.
The disciples were truly distressed that Christ was leaving them. Yet, it was for their good that He was going to His Father in order to prepare for them a dwelling place. He told them: “ I am going away and I am coming to you”. God now dwells in us, through his Spirit.
You are the only true peace, Lord; “ In Your Will is our peace”. Let us live in His unfailing love and lift our hearts to Him.  Blessings to all.
Fr. Mussie