Christ Jesus, help me recognize and real-ize the things that make for peace. ...

1 Maccabees 2: 15-29
 
Things that make for peace are not opiates or other substances or even particular possessions. Neither will turning a blind eye to the suffering of others, or complying with practices that satiate the world and the flesh bring peace to myself or to others. Rather, the things that make for true peace involve real-izing, or doing, things that open the well-springs to the peace of Christ, that passes all understanding. Sometimes, like Matthias in Maccabeean times I am required to stand up, shout out loud and take dramatic action, but more often I am called to quietly but steadfastly recognize things that make for peace in my family, community or place of work, and do them – faithfully, compassionately and with purity. Christ Jesus, help me recognize and real-ize the things that make for peace.  
 
If today you hear God’s voice, harden not your hearts. (Psalm 95:8)
 
May I contemplate you alone, O Lord, and my lamp ever burn and shine before you.
Saint Columban 
 
Soli gloriam dei .