A parting personal word on peace
In those days[1]…the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way[2]…
Every December 25th when I read the Christmas story (combining the details of the narratives of Luke and Matthew), I already know how it ends: Mary. Joseph. A spiritual-impregnation (as predicted by an angelic visitation to Mary). An imperial census decree. A trek to Bethlehem. A lost reservation at the inn. The birth in a squalid stable. An angelic appearance to shepherds proclaiming God’s peace on earth. Magi from the East, bearing gifts.
I also believe, therefore, know that Jesus is God’s gift of making peace with me.
However, I don’t know how my story ends. Every day, so far, I have failed to be fully who and what I believe I’m supposed to be. Nevertheless, as long as I am granted the graces of breath and strength, I, striving to be alive to every moment, labor to reciprocate – becoming…being a peace-offering to God, myself, all others, and the world.
© 2023 PRA
#makingpeace #beingpeace
[1] Luke 2.1a
[2] Matthew 1.18a
occasional observations of mind and heart, soul and spirit 