THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER

Peace Be With You

Today's Gospel (Luke 24:35-48) presents Jesus appearing to his apostles at a time when they were concerned and afraid.  It draws our attention especially because he showed them in many ways that he was real, that he resurrected as it was written in the Scriptures, that he was not a ghost, and even that he was hungry, as he asked for food to eat with them. In turn, the apostles were amazed and believed.

I wonder how many times we fall in the same category as the disciples, so preoccupied about challenges in our lives or in our communities: finances, school issues, employment, home and food shortages, inability to stop alcohol or drug abuse, marriage challenges, immigration status, health issues, politics, raising children, language and culture differences, and on and on.  Yet, Jesus makes his presence known with a simple "Peace be with you."  He knows exactly our very long list of needs and wants us to pay attention, first and foremost, to those four words. He wants to open our minds so we can understand his message of love, compassion, faith and much more through the Scriptures.

When I was about nine years old, I had my very first test of faith.  It was a typical Sunday attending the morning Mass in my hometown church of Santiago Apostol, or St James the Apostle, in Tuxpan in the Mexican state of Michoacán, when all of a sudden I realized that the ten pesos my mom gave me to purchase groceries after church was gone. My immediate reaction was of concern and fear; consequently, I wanted to run out of the church before the Mass was over to attempt to find the money.  However, a moment of "Peace be with you" came to my mind, and I asked God to please save my money, while I instead decided to stay until the end of Mass. Then after, I started walking back home using the same route and when I was about halfway, suddenly, I saw my money lying on the street.  I picked it up happily and thanked God.

In our lives we will face much bigger issues than losing ten pesos.  But we should remember that for our Lord Jesus, nothing is impossible. He came to bring us peace. We might find his peace in a best friend, neighbor, classmate, co-worker, priest, spouse, children, or fellow rider on the train.  Or, we might be the ones to bring his presence and peace to others. 

–Angie Muller-Gonzalez

Send Us Forth are reflections written by St. Matthew parishioners and friends.