True peace is found in finding one’s cross and the person, however flawed one might be, who is the true self.
Our Gospel Portion today is St. Matthew 16: 21-27, and we will pray,
Then Jesus told his disciples, “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.”
Matthew 16:24
The self that we present to the world is often not who we truly are. Expectations put great pressure on us, and appearances do matter. However, we must not let that change who we truly are as a follower of Christ. Somehow we must find the balance between what society expects of us and the Lord we serve.
We are called to be saints in the world as it exists! I am not able to tell anyone how to do this; this is our cross, and it is made especially for each of us.
What would Jesus do in our situation? This is our ongoing question wherever we are in life, and it is our way to peace. This is the call of St. John the Baptist: be the best person you can be in the job that you are doing.
For example, at the office, when people are tearing down the reputations of others not present, do not participate in the reputation assassination. Learn to walk away from things that are not appropriate to the love of the Lord.
We can make the world a better place if we are true to ourselves and to the Lord we serve.
Embrace the Cross and bring Heaven to Earth! Please struggle with me to do this!
Pax. The Hermit of Peace.
Hermitage of Peace 