Every day it feels like we’re moving closer to some apocalyptic future, with politics gone awry, climate change threatening our children’s world, and hatred everywhere we look. How do we as Catholics keep ourselves apart from the fray while still living in the middle of it? How to we find peace in the midst of turmoil? Here are three ideas:
- It’s important to recognize what John 14:27 tells us: he makes it clear where peace is not found. It is not found in the world, ourselves, circumstances, or comfort, all of which we tend to seek for peace. Christ has made it clear in his Word that the peace we seek is bought, assured, and sustained by Christ alone.
- Remain close to the community of faith. Church community, family, and friendships are all God’s design to bring refuge to those who are troubled. As St. Paul instructed the church of Colossae to remain in fellowship with one another to keep the peace of Christ, so does he instruct us to do the same today.
- When we don’t know what to do next, we can pray. Why talk to Jesus? Because he understands suffering—not in some distant cosmic way, but in the flesh. He suffered greatly during his time on earth. He understands what you’re feeling.
Our times are difficult, but other times have been just as difficult for those living them. Keep that perspective, keep praying, and keep your faith, and you’ll find peace.
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