The Peace Jesus Gives
May 20, 2025 - Tuesday of Fifth Week of Easter
John 14:27–31a
Peace. We all want it—whether it’s peace at home, peace in our minds, or peace in the world. But what does real peace actually look like?
Before we receive Holy Communion at Mass, we hear these words: “Peace I leave you, my peace I give you.” That’s a direct quote from Jesus in today’s Gospel. He said it the night before He died—right when things were about to get really dark and really painful. So the peace He’s talking about isn’t just a good mood or a quiet day. It’s something stronger.
The truth is, the world has its own version of peace. It's the kind of “peace” that comes from power, weapons, or fear. In ancient times, the Roman Empire bragged about something called Pax Romana—“Roman Peace.” But it was peace built on violence. They crushed anyone who didn’t obey. Some people still think peace means being the strongest so no one dares to mess with you. But Jesus’ peace is nothing like that.
Jesus offers shalom—a deep, spiritual peace that comes from God. It’s more than just the absence of fighting. It’s the presence of love, wholeness, and trust in God's care. It’s what you feel when you know, deep down, that no matter what’s going on around you, you’re not alone. You’re safe in God’s hands.
It’s not always easy to hold onto that peace. We see Christians in conflict. We see countries at war, people hurting each other, and even families torn apart. So where is the peace of Christ in all this?
Here’s the thing: Jesus doesn’t force peace on us. He gives it—but we have to receive it. That means choosing His way: forgiveness over revenge, truth over lies, love over fear. Paul says that God’s peace “surpasses all understanding.” It doesn’t always make sense from the outside. But it guards our hearts when life gets hard.
And did you know? Peace is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit—right after love and joy. That means if you’ve got the Spirit of Jesus in you, peace is already growing inside you, like fruit on a tree. And just like fruit, it takes time, patience, and care to grow.
When Jesus rose from the dead, His very first words to His friends were: “Peace be with you.” He didn’t scold them or shame them. He gave them peace. And He gives it to you too.
So here’s the question: What kind of peace are you chasing? The kind the world gives—or the kind that Jesus gives? One can be taken away in a moment. But the other lasts forever.
Let the peace of Christ live in you today. Let it calm your thoughts, steady your heart, and guide your steps. Then go and share that peace with the world.