Searching for God in the midst of crisis!

Searching for God in the midst of crisis!

As one celebration comes to a close we await the start of another where the peace we didn’t experience may present itself.  Of course, Christmas doesn’t end until the Baptism of Jesus but the peace we longed for isn’t found in dates or seasons.  

How often Jesus spoke of peace;  “Peace be with you”  (Jn 20: 19)  (Lk. 24: 36).   A 2nd time, “Peace be with you.  As the Father has sent me, so I send you.”  (Jn 20: 21)).  

The greeting of peace is a universal expression, not necessarily with those words, but a welcome of one person to another that proclaims a sign of “I welcome you to my house, family, or nation as in countries meeting for common relationships.”

Unfortunately, too many nations’ leaders, people who should adhere to common friendship, and within our own family ties where peace should begin are all absent of what peace means anymore.  

Even though we just celebrated Christmas which through the Incarnation leads us to the Cross and the crucifixion that was meant to be our salvation, the common expression should have been the words of the angel at Jesus’ birth; “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”  (lk. 2: 14). Songs of glee and pleasantries are shared among families, close friends, and with each Christmas card a reminder of what is occurring.   One day later the world goes back to the old manner of business as usual.  What just happened to the words of welcome, the chimes of song and smiles that seemed to not expect frowns and bitterness to turn back to its old ways.  

Our Father in heaven ordained a plan to save us by Jesus’ Crucifixion but also expected each of us to find that joy through a peace that comes from the heart, in spite of disappointments.  The presence of God through his Holy Spirit was sent at Pentecost and peace is the most adherent gift we will receive.  We will find what we are searching for in the midst of crisis; God’s Presence and the peace Jesus spoke of after the Resurrection.  

Go and proclaim the peace of the Incarnation, God’s gift of peace in Christ.

Ralph B. Hathaway