Spirituality

Dear Friends,

Behold I make all things new! These words from scripture could refer to the birth of our Lord – who indeed made all things new by his coming! But today, I am thinking it might be thought of in terms of the New Year. Our God gives us so many new beginnings and so many opportunities to turn our lives around, to change our direction.

In the New Year, Peace is my hope for all of us. This is what God desires for us and yet we live in a world of violence. For as long as I can remember, there has been war and in recent years, it seems as though war has entered our homes and our schools, our marriages and our families. We can no longer live in peace within our own life, much less on a national or international scale.

I once heard someone say that “world peace begins with inner peace.” Until each of us has the ability to live in peace within ourselves, there is very little chance we can live in peace with others. The truth is, inner conflict always shows itself in outer conflicts.

Most of us are not involved in world politics or leadership. For most of us the opportunity to practice peacemaking will take place in the ordinary circumstances of everyday events and relationships. I believe we can be peacemakers by doing what good we can in the context God has placed us, keeping watch for the doors He opens up for us and allowing the vision of Isaiah to inform our lives.

My hope and my prayer for you in the New Year is that “..the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7)

Shalom,

Sr. Mary Ann Barnhorn, SND

Director of Development