Theme for Week Two
Cultivating Peace
We are not at peace with others because we are not at peace with ourselves, and we are not at peace with ourselves because we are not at peace with God.
- Thomas Merton
Cultivating peace is a two-step process for people of faith. The above quote from Thomas Merton reminds us that peace begins with cultivating peace within ourselves, but it doesn’t stop there. The peace that we cultivate in ourselves, with God’s help, is something we are called to bring into the world.
Yesterday’s reflection by Abi Moon included a poignant story of experiencing conflict with a colleague. In her response, we see how we can choose to reshape the conflict within ourselves. When we do this we can re-engage from a place of peace and centeredness rather than from a place of needing to get even or win an argument.
As with all the fruits of the Spirit, peace is a choice, a decision that starts from deep within the soil of our hearts and then radiates out. We can only offer peace to the world after we have first cultivated it in ourselves. When we seek God’s help in removing the weeds of self-righteousness and pride within us, we are on the path to cultivating peace in all aspects of our lives.
Making It Personal: Consider a particular relationship or situation where you desire a greater sense of peace. Take a moment to bring that situation to mind and then take some time to pray for guidance on how you can ask for God’s help in removing any barriers to peace you may be experiencing.
Listen To Our Lent Podcast Episodes
We also invite you to listen to the Living Compass Spirituality and Wellness Podcast hosted by Scott Stoner. This is a year-round, weekly podcast; however, during Lent, there will be two new episodes each week to enrich your experience of our Lenten readings on Cultivating the Fruit of the Spirit.
You can listen to the podcast on our website by clicking HERE. You can also find this podcast in your favorite podcast listening app (Apple, Google, Spotify, etc.)—just search for Living Compass Spirituality and Wellness