Shalom and Francis Xavier

The verse of Shalom (Isaiah 2:4), peace so profound that it changes the nature of nations, is hidden within the passage in the Roman Catholic Lectionary from the Book of the Prophet Isaiah. This poem, according to Friar Jude Winkler, is also in the Book of the Prophet Micah. The psalmist praises the peace and direction from God found within the walls of Jerusalem. At the time of the Kingdom of David and Solomon, the society formed around following the will of God attracted interest from all the nations. The understanding that we are called to be a light to the nations is often missing in our time of many religious denominations which seem to emphasize their difference rather than the common search for the gifts of peace and unity which are the fruits of moving toward the Mountain of God. Matthew tells of Jesus encounter with the centurion who demonstrates faith that God will act through Jesus to heal his servant. The Church commemorates St Francis Xavier today who is credited by Living with Christ with the proclamation “Lord, I am here! What do you want me to do? Send me anywhere you like.” Faith that the will of God for our lives will always bring the best outcome is at the foundation of the great openness of this saint to be the example of Jesus disciple in many corners of the earth.