+ In the gospel passage today, after announcing his gift of peace to the disciples Jesus reminds them that the peace he offers is not like that of the world; for worldly peace comes and goes, being rooted as it is in the fickle ruminations of the hearts of men. But the peace Jesus gives is rooted in God, who is eternal, who is all powerful, and who can consistently keep his promises. And the amazing promise that Jesus makes here on the Father’s behalf, is that not only would there be a deep abiding peace for those who commit themselves to him fully, but there would also be a place of peace in the kingdom to which Jesus would escort each and every person he intended to be there.
After making this promise [this is taking place just before the agony in the garden] Jesus says that the price to pay for all this is now fast approaching: it will appear that the ruler of this world [i.e. the devil, the necessary opposing polarity] will have his way, but this never even was a possibility, although certain things have now to be played out – things commanded by the Father; and Jesus says that he will lovingly and freely do them, because he loves both the Father, and us for whom he is doing these things.
St. Paul tells all disciples everywhere and at every time – in our reading from the Acts of the Apostles – that preaching the gospel and proclaiming the kingdom in the world is a risky and dangerous business [as he knew from first-hand experience] – but that it has to be done so that those who are meant to hear the “good news” of Death and Resurrection of the Son of God – may hear it, come to believe and indeed become part of the kingdom – in a more enlightened perspective - through baptism. Paul established so many communities of believers in all of this, and the same faith has persisted and has come down through the ages to us!
And for our part it would behoove us to enter into fully all the ramifications of membership in this “heavenly realm” in the here and now – because this is where it actually resides – the “kingdom” – it exists and persists in our coming to know in our hearts the power we have to choose life abundantly and creatively and lovingly – and sharing it with those in most need – and right now that would be all affected directly or collaterally with the coronavirus pandemic. It is in the act of dynamic interaction – if only distanced, and/or virtual, that we can watch the virus play itself out – and be as contained as it going to get – because we, human beings / imbued with the life and creativity and love of God have been instrumental. And this will produce the peace of Christ which is beyond all understanding – no matter what life delivers to our doorsteps!
But it is going to take a concerted effort – restraint – patience – resilience – and most of all kindness, compassion and trust – in a God who always will keep his promise to be our Father, our LORD and our Redeemer!
And now our mouths speak the praises of the Lord and our flesh blesses his holy name! Amen! Alleluia!
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