Tuesday of the Fifth Week of Easter May 11, 2004 Scripture: Acts 14:19-28; John 14:27-31A Reflection: “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you.” - John 14:27 What is it about peace that is so elusive to us? We talk about peace- making, peace on earth, making peace with one another but when it comes right down to it, we would often rather hold that grudge or refuse forgiveness. Jesus certainly had reason to hold a grudge or refuse forgiveness to the civic leaders who crucified him and yet on the cross he asked, “Father forgive them”…How can we not forgive? How can we not work with all of our might to build a peace-filled world? Jesus gave us his gift of Peace and how better to celebrate a gift than to share it with the world? Suggested Action: What can you do to create peace in our world? In what areas of your life do you need to build reconciliation? To quote the lyrics of a song by John Lennon, “all we are saying, is give peace a chance.” Sr. Grace Surdovel, IHM Carbondale, Pennsylvania