Day Three. Tuesday, 19 May Acts 20:17-27; Jn 17:1-11. Eternal life is this, to know you, the only true God and Jesus whom you sent.

Laudato Si’ 202.  “Many things have to change, but it is we human beings, above all, who need to change. We lack an awareness of our common origin, our mutual belonging and of a future to be shared with everyone. A great cultural, spiritual and educational challenge stands before us, and it will demand that we set out on the long path of renewal.”

Reflection: Jesus’s first section of his priestly prayer is for all creation, especially humankind, that upon recognizing the Son they may have eternal life. He prays that through humankind the universe may be saved. David sings of God’s goodness toward humankind, that when ‘people were starved you gave them new life. it was there that your people found a home, prepared in your goodness, O God, for the poor.’ (Ps 68:10-11) Perhaps, like Paul, we have turned prisoners not in spirit, but in real acts of destruction and devastation.

Peace is a crucial factor in maintaining unity within the Church. In Ephesians 4:3, the “bond of peace” signifies a vital and active principle that not only connects but also sustains the unity of the Christian community. Christ, the Prince of Peace (cf. Isaiah 9:6), preached peace and reconciliation. Peace is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22), both a gift and a result of the Spirit at work.

Peace fosters meaningful relationships, allowing believers to interact harmoniously and more readily forgive one another. Paul highlights the fact that true unity requires ongoing commitment to peace. It calls for active cultivation and promotion of peace among members.

We need to educate, advocate, campaign, be informed and reform our ways of focusing on the urgent actions required for change. We need to understand and know that our actions are for what we hope for – a better life for all.

A question to consider: How does St Paul’s teaching that peace is a fruit of the Spirit impact our daily interactions and relationships within our communities, especially where there is need for reconciliation or forgiveness?

The power is not in perfection. The power is in participation.

Prayer for Families and Ecological Life: God our Father, as we long for a better life, let our eyes be wide open to the suffering in the world. Let us, as families, be seeds and signs of hope and first fruits in the world. As we travel through life, we may not engage in corrupt activities but be just people who seek your will in everything. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.