July 11, 2019 Thursday of the 14th Week in Ordinary Time-C ST. BENEDICT, ABBOT
Genesis 44:18-21, 23-29; 45:1-5
Psalm 105
Matthew 10:7-15
“…do not be distressed, and do not reproach yourselves…” Gen. 45:5
“As you enter a house, wish it peace.” Mt. 10:12
Lord, when you sent disciples on their mission to announce your kingdom their first words were to be a blessing of peace. When you appeared to them following your resurrection, your first words were the same blessing of peace. So much more can be done in human relationships when there is peace. There is so little peace in this world among nations, peoples and families. We are so divided along racial, religious and political lines that the work of healing and nourishing cannot even get started. But when we bring an attitude of real peace to any encounter there is a great start at understanding and reconciliation. Joseph brought peace to his meeting with his brothers and so began a joyful family reunion. You brought peace to enemies, sinners and those who had denied and abandoned you. Lord, help me be an agent of your peace. I can still disagree or disapprove of the ways of others and still bring peace to them. Forgiveness and peace can heal marriages and reunite families. Guide my heart to receive your peace and to share it with everyone I meet today. Amen