the real work of life

So many people it seems have been preoccupied with the end of the world of late. Some may have believed the world would actually end on May 21st--some pet owners at least were well prepared. Others whose lives have been devastated by tornadoes or other severe weather may feel as if it already has.

In today's Gospel, Jesus tells us:

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.
Not as the world gives do I give it to you.
Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.

Why does he tell us this? Is it so that we can sit idly by while poverty, suffering and oppression take root around us? Is it so that we can feel safe, secure and unafraid and not worry about other people who might be in trouble?

It seems to me that Jesus reminds us, again and again, not to be afraid but to act in love. Or, in the words of Master Yoda, "Do or do not. There is no try." We can become so paralyzed by fear or overwhelmed by the state of the world that we do nothing, or not very much. But Jesus invites us to so much more.

With Christ's peace, the source of so much power, we are called to get down to the nitty gritty of life. To help our neighbor when disaster strikes. To seek just laws and changes to systems that keep people oppressed. To enjoy the beauty of creation in springtime, and to take actions big and small to ensure that this gift of God is here for generations to come. In short, we are called to stop worrying about the end of the world and instead to get down to the real work of life. Love.

Pace e Bene, Peace and All Good