Word to the Wise
Tuesday, May 9, 2023 - 5th Week of Easter - Tues
[Acts 14:19-28 and John 14:27-31a]"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid." [John]
These words from the Last Supper discourse should be familiar to us. We say them just before the "sign of peace" at Mass. This gesture has become controversial, mostly for cultural reasons but also for theological reasons. Culturally, the problem is the Anglo-American idea of "social distancing." We don't particularly care to shake hands with just anyone! And a speechless bow seems a strange way to wish "peace" to anyone. Theologically, what IS the "peace" we are wishing for?
One of the distinguishing characteristics of the Gospel According to John is that from "the beginning" Jesus is in charge of the whole drama. He is not caught by surprise by any circumstance at any point in the drama. Therefore, at the Last Supper he is assuring the disciples of his command of what will take place in the next few traumatic days for them. The peace that Jesus offers is that no matter what happens, he will take care of those who are entrusted to him. Is that the peace we wish for one another at Mass? God's providential care, no matter what? Or has liturgical politeness simply robbed the gesture of its true meaning?
In our currently "polarized" society or even our violent world, peace often means absence of conflict. But there is more than conflict at issue in Christ's peace. There is sickness, homelessness, addictions, etc. - all the afflictions we humans suffer or create for ourselves. Can we see, and wish for ourselves and others, God's providential care, testified to by Jesus' own life, death and resurrection? [cf. John 15:13] Keeping this in mind could add a lot of meaning to a liturgically polite gesture!! AMEN