Peace Over Chaos

 The texts from the Roman Catholic Lectionary today inspire us to work with religious leaders to bring “Shalom” to our environment nearby and in our world living in chaos.

Our Response to Chaos

The Reading from the Acts of the Apostles describes the End of the First Mission of Paul and Barnabas.

* [14:23] They appointed presbyters: the communities are given their own religious leaders by the traveling missionaries. The structure in these churches is patterned on the model of the Jerusalem community (Acts 11:30; 15:2, 5, 22; 21:18). (Acts of the Apostles, CHAPTER 14 | USCCB, n.d.) (Acts of the Apostles, CHAPTER 14 | USCCB, n.d.)

Psalm 145 declares the “works of God” make God present and invite human praise.

* [Psalm 145] A hymn in acrostic form; every verse begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Acrostic poems usually do not develop ideas but consist rather of loosely connected statements. The singer invites all to praise God (Ps 145:1–3, 21). The “works of God” make God present and invite human praise (Ps 145:4–7); they climax in a confession (Ps 145:8–9). God’s mighty acts show forth divine kingship (Ps 145:10–20), a major theme in the literature of early Judaism and in Christianity. (Psalms, PSALM 145 | USCCB, n.d.)

The Gospel of John presents Jesus’ departure and return dialogue.

* [14:1–31] Jesus’ departure and return. This section is a dialogue marked off by a literary inclusion in Jn 14:1, 27: “Do not let your hearts be troubled.”

* [14:27] Peace: the traditional Hebrew salutation šālôm; but Jesus’ “Shalom” is a gift of salvation, connoting the bounty of messianic blessing.

* [14:28] The Father is greater than I: because he sent, gave, etc., and Jesus is “a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God” (Jn 8:40).

* [14:30] The ruler of the world: Satan; cf. Jn 12:31; 16:11. (John, CHAPTER 14 | USCCB, n.d.)

Mike Cherney comments that today is Cinco de Mayo, a day that recalls a spirit of resistance against overwhelming odds.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.” Recalling His promise of the Spirit, I see this peace not as a serene, tranquil absence of conflict, but the support of the Spirit in the middle of the storm. It is the strength to stand up, like Paul, and declare that the power of evil cannot dominate, because there is the Spirit within.

Cinco de Mayo becomes more than a historical remembrance; it serves as a spiritual metaphor. In my trials, I am not abandoned. I have the Advocate. This Spirit can embolden one with a fire in the heart to stand firm in the face of tribulation and can offer a joy that is courageous, persevering, and profoundly hopeful.

My prayer today centers on finding my place within this reality.

Dear Lord, I live in a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain. 

Too often, I see decisions driven by self-interest rather than the common good.

 I carry concerns and fears about what lies ahead. 

Yet I trust that Your Spirit is still at work. 

Guide me in my mission, strengthen my resolve,

 and help me recognize the gifts that You provide each day. (Cherney, n.d.)

Don Schwager quotes “The Following of Christ,” by Augustine of Hippo, 354-430 A.D.

"Come, follow Me, says the Lord. Do you love? He has hastened on, He has flown on ahead. Look and see where. O Christian, don't you know where your Lord has gone? I ask you: Don't you wish to follow Him there? Through trials, insults, the cross, and death. Why do you hesitate? Look, the way has been shown you." (excerpt from Sermon 345,6) (Schwager, n.d.)

The Word Among Us Meditation on John 14:21-26 comments that since the world isn’t the source of our peace, the world doesn’t have the power to take it away—even if we feel some agitation from time to time! Peace is not political, so political unrest doesn’t have to overwhelm us. It’s not economic, so we can find Jesus’ peace even in the face of inflation or job loss. His peace is not tied to our ability to control any of our circumstances, so as we trust the Lord, we will find a peace that, as St. Paul says, “surpasses all understanding” (Philippians 4:7).

Let that truth sink in: the peace that will bring true rest to your heart is something you cannot accomplish with your own efforts. It comes from God, and he wants to give it to you! Just look at the first thing Jesus says to his disciples after the resurrection: “Peace be with you” (John 20:19).

You can always trust in Jesus, whether or not you feel in control of your life, whether or not you have amassed enough material treasure—no matter what challenges come your way. Because lasting peace comes directly from Jesus.

“Jesus, help me open my heart to the peace that only you can give me!” (Meditation on John 14:21-26, n.d.)

Friar Jude Winkler comments the reading from Acts presents when Paul and Barnabas are thrown out of the city and travel with great success in the Asia Minor. They appoint presbyters, who were elders rather than priests. In the Gospel of John, we learn that Jesus is going to give a different peace. The Peace that Jesus gives is doing the Will of the Father. This is the joy and peace of being where we belong. It is not dependent on happiness. The Peace of God brings comfort that dispels anxiety. Friar Jude reminds us that however a situation turns out, God will be there with us.

Father Richard Rohr, OFM, introduces James Finley who lived in a Cistercian monastery with Thomas Merton, where he was steeped in this union and love mysticism,  reflects on the teachings of the twelfth-century mystic and monastic reformer Bernard of Clairvaux, one of the most prolific commentators on the Song of Songs. He comments on the opening lines of the Song of Songs.

Let Him kiss me with the kiss of His mouth (1:1). Who speaks? The bride. Who is she? The soul thirsting for God…. If one is a servant he is in dread of his lord’s face. If one is a hireling he hopes for pay from his lord’s hand. If one is a disciple he gives ear to his teacher. If one is a son he honors his father. But the soul who begs a kiss, is in love. Among the gifts of nature this affection of love holds first place, especially when it makes haste to return to its Origin, which is God. Words cannot be found so sweet as to express the sweet affections of the Word and the soul for each other, except bride and Bridegroom. [2]

We seek the Wisdom of the Spirit as we ponder the tension, particularly relevant today between the greed and imperialism of the time of Cinco de Mayo, that continues to resonate today and the Peace beyond understanding that Jesus invites us to present to the world.

References

Acts of the Apostles, CHAPTER 14 | USCCB. (n.d.). Daily Readings. Retrieved May 5, 2026, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/acts/14?19 

Cherney, M. (n.d.). Daily Reflection. Creighton Online Ministries: Home. Retrieved May 5, 2026, from https://onlineministries.creighton.edu/daily-reflections/daily-reflection-may-5-2026 

John, CHAPTER 14 | USCCB. (n.d.). Daily Readings. Retrieved May 5, 2026, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/john/14?27 

Meditation on John 14:21-26. (n.d.). Word Among Us. Retrieved May 5, 2026, from https://wau.org/meditations/2026/05/04/1557172/ 

Psalms, PSALM 145 | USCCB. (n.d.). Daily Readings. Retrieved May 5, 2026, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/psalms/145? 

Schwager, D. (n.d.). My Peace I Give to You. Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations – Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations. Retrieved May 5, 2026, from https://www.dailyscripture.net/daily-meditation/ 

Abundance and Mission

The texts from the Roman Catholic Lectionary today resonate with last instructions and our acceptance of direction in our mission.

A Path for Life

The Reading from the First Letter of Kings presents David’s Last Instructions and Death.

a. [2:3] Dt 17:18–19.

b. [2:4] 2 Sm 7:11–16; Ps 132:11–12.

f. [2:10] Acts 2:29.

g. [2:11] 2 Sm 2:1–4; 5:1–5. (1 Kings, CHAPTER 2 | USCCB, n.d.)

The Responsorial Psalm from First Chronicles is David’s Prayer.

i. [29:12] 2 Chr 20:6; Wis 6:3. (1 Chronicles, CHAPTER 29 | USCCB, n.d.)

The Gospel of Mark proclaims The Mission of the Twelve.

* [6:8–9] In Mark the use of a walking stick (Mk 6:8) and sandals (Mk 6:9) is permitted, but not in Mt 10:10 nor in Lk 10:4. Mark does not mention any prohibition to visit pagan territory and to enter Samaritan towns. These differences indicate a certain adaptation to conditions in and outside of Palestine and suggest in Mark’s account a later activity in the church. For the rest, Jesus required of his apostles a total dependence on God for food and shelter; cf. Mk 6:35–44; 8:1–9.

* [6:10–11] Remaining in the same house as a guest (Mk 6:10) rather than moving to another offering greater comfort avoided any impression of seeking advantage for oneself and prevented dishonor to one’s host. Shaking the dust off one’s feet served as testimony against those who rejected the call to repentance. (Mark, CHAPTER 6 | USCCB, n.d.)

Carol Zuegner asks How can I focus more on people, and not things?  What can I do to help make the world a better place, right now, right here?

We get weighed down by things and titles and the ways we think we have to live our lives to be successful. Take Let me look at my life and figure out ways to pack light. I don’t expect perfection, but I can take steps to drop some of these things that can become burdens.

The second reminder for me from today’s gospel is when Jesus tells the apostles to leave a place that does not welcome them and “shake the dust off your feet.” For me, I think this means to acknowledge mistakes, work to correct them, and move on. This applies to myself and to others. Not everything works out. I will make mistakes. Other people will make mistakes. Let me assume good intentions. Let me work to make sure my intentions are good, that I do see the good in everyone. Let me let go of grudges, of past hurts and misunderstandings. Let me see God in all things, including myself. Let me shake the dust of those grudges and perceived slights and move on. (Zuegner, n.d.)

Don Schwager quotes “Jesus gives them power to heal and cast out evil spirits,” by Cyril of Alexandria (376-444 AD).

"The grace bestowed upon the holy apostles is worthy of all admiration. But the bountifulness of the Giver surpasses all praise and admiration. He gives them, as I said, his own glory. They receive authority over the evil spirits. They reduce to nothing the pride of the devil that was so highly exalted and arrogant. They render ineffectual the demon's wickedness. By the might and efficacy of the Holy Spirit, burning them as if they were on fire, they make the devil come forth with groans and weeping from those whom he had possessed... "He glorified his disciples, therefore, by giving them authority and power over the evil spirits and over sicknesses. Did he honor them without reason and make them famous without any logical cause? How can this be true? It was necessary, most necessary, that they should be able to work miracles, having been publicly appointed ministers of sacred proclamations. By means of their works, they then could convince men that they were the ministers of God and mediators of all beneath the heaven. The apostles then could invite them all to reconciliation and justification by faith and point out the way of salvation and of life that is this justification." (excerpt from COMMENTARY ON LUKE, HOMILY 47) (Schwager, n.d.)

The Word Among Us Meditation on 1 Kings 2:1-4, 10-12 comments that when it came to handing on his kingdom, David knew that Solomon’s relationship with God was far more important than what he owned or whom he commanded. That relationship would be the foundation on which his kingdom would be built.

The same goes for you. Even if you’ve had your ups and downs, like David, you can still invite the people you care about to follow the Lord. You can leave them the legacy of the way you related to the Lord during your life and how that affected the way you related to other people. They can learn from the example of how you received mercy from God, how you did your best to serve him and trust him, and how you intend to love him to the end. These are the priorities that will leave a priceless inheritance for your loved ones. Because the best legacy you can leave your family is the example of a life surrendered to the Lord.

“Father, help me to love you better so that my life can be a lasting example for everyone who knows me.” (Meditation on 1 Kings 2:1-4, 10-12, n.d.)

Friar Jude Winkler comments that in 1 Kings David gives Solomon a set of instructions to follow the Lord and walk in His way. Another set of David’s instructions resonates with a mafia don. David had reigned seven years in Hebron and 33 years in Jerusalem. In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus sends the disciples out two by two. Providence will provide what they need. Some will not accept the message so be prepared to shake the dust off your feet. Don’t cast pearls to the swine. Friar Jude notes that the twelve are healing and blessing in the Kingdom that comes through Word and Deed.

Father Richard Rohr, OFM, encourages us to pray for a worldview of abundance instead of scarcity.

The worldview of abundance depends upon us recognizing that we are in touch with an Infinite Source. If we’ve never made contact with our Infinite Source, we will be stingy, even selfish. We will guard and hoard the portion we have. This affects much of our politics and policies in this country. We’re always afraid that someone else is taking what we have earned, as if we had earned it entirely by ourselves. Most of it has been given to us, yes, by our work, but also by grace and freedom, and the choices of many other people, almost despite ourselves.

Jesus represents the worldview of abundance in every one of his multiplication miracles and stories. There’s always the making of much out of little and there are always baskets left over. That’s the only possible message: There’s plenty! If we learn to be creative, if we learn to be imaginative, if we learn to be a little less selfish, there’s always another way to look at it and another way to make sure all are fed. (Rohr, n.d.)

We reflect on the message in the life of King David and the resonance of the commission of the Twelve to teach and heal with the expectation that Providence would support their “packing light” and “shaking the dust” from activity that is met by rejection.

References

Mark, CHAPTER 6 | USCCB. (n.d.). Daily Readings. Retrieved February 5, 2026, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/mark/6?7 

Meditation on 1 Kings 2:1-4, 10-12. (n.d.). Word Among Us. Retrieved February 5, 2026, from https://wau.org/meditations/2026/02/05/1494436/ 

1 Chronicles, CHAPTER 29 | USCCB. (n.d.). Daily Readings. Retrieved February 5, 2026, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/1chronicles/29?10 

1 Kings, CHAPTER 2 | USCCB. (n.d.). Daily Readings. Retrieved February 5, 2026, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/1kings/2?1 

Rohr, R. (n.d.). There Is More Than Enough. CAC.org. Retrieved February 5, 2026, from https://cac.org/https://cac.org/daily-meditations/there-is-more-than-enough/ 

Schwager, D. (n.d.). Jesus Gave Them Authority over Sickness and Unclean Spirits. Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations – Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations. Retrieved February 5, 2026, from https://www.dailyscripture.net/daily-meditation/ 

Zuegner, C. (n.d.). Daily Reflection. Creighton Online Ministries: Home. Retrieved February 5, 2026, from https://onlineministries.creighton.edu/daily-reflections/daily-reflection-february-5-2026 

Pilgrims and Providence

The texts from the Roman Catholic Lectionary today challenge us to embrace our pilgrimage as witnesses to the love and mercy of God for all people.

Witness of Pilgrims

The Reading from the Second Letter to Timothy describes Paul’s Loneliness

* [4:9–13] Demas either abandoned the work of the ministry for worldly affairs or, perhaps, gave up the faith itself (2 Tm 4:10). Luke (2 Tm 4:11) may have accompanied Paul on parts of his second and third missionary journeys (Acts 16:10–12; 20:5–7). Notice the presence of the first personal pronoun “we” in these Acts passages, suggesting to some that Luke (or at least some traveling companion of Paul’s) was the author of Acts. Mark, once rejected by Paul (Acts 13:13; 15:39), is now to render him a great service (2 Tm 4:11); cf. Col 4:10; Phlm 24. For Tychicus, see Eph 6:21; cf. also Acts 20:4; Col 4:7.

* [4:10] Galatia: some manuscripts read “Gaul” or “Gallia.”

* [4:14–18] Alexander: an opponent of Paul’s preaching (2 Tm 4:14–15), perhaps the one who is mentioned in 1 Tm 1:20. Despite Paul’s abandonment by his friends in the province of Asia (cf. 2 Tm 1:15–16), the divine assistance brought this first trial to a successful issue, even to the point of making the gospel message known to those who participated in or witnessed the trial (2 Tm 4:16–17). (2 Timothy, CHAPTER 4, n.d.)

Psalm 145 proclaims that God’s mighty acts show forth divine kingship.

* [Psalm 145] A hymn in acrostic form; every verse begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Acrostic poems usually do not develop ideas but consist rather of loosely connected statements. The singer invites all to praise God (Ps 145:1–3, 21). The “works of God” make God present and invite human praise (Ps 145:4–7); they climax in a confession (Ps 145:8–9). God’s mighty acts show forth divine kingship (Ps 145:10–20), a major theme in the literature of early Judaism and in Christianity. (Psalms, PSALM 145 | USCCB, n.d.)

The Gospel of Luke describes the Mission of the Seventy-two.

* [10:1–12] Only the Gospel of Luke contains two episodes in which Jesus sends out his followers on a mission: the first (Lk 9:1–6) is based on the mission in Mk 6:6b–13 and recounts the sending out of the Twelve; here in Lk 10:1–12 a similar report based on Q becomes the sending out of seventy-two in this gospel. The episode continues the theme of Jesus preparing witnesses to himself and his ministry. These witnesses include not only the Twelve but also the seventy-two who may represent the Christian mission in Luke’s own day. Note that the instructions given to the Twelve and to the seventy-two are similar and that what is said to the seventy-two in Lk 10:4 is directed to the Twelve in Lk 22:35.

* [10:1] Seventy[-two]: important representatives of the Alexandrian and Caesarean text types read “seventy,” while other important Alexandrian texts and Western readings have “seventy-two.”

* [10:4] Carry no money bag…greet no one along the way: because of the urgency of the mission and the singlemindedness required of missionaries, attachment to material possessions should be avoided and even customary greetings should not distract from the fulfillment of the task.

* [10:5] First say, ‘Peace to this household’: see notes on Lk 2:14 and Mt 10:13.

* [10:6] A peaceful person: literally, “a son of peace.” (Luke, CHAPTER 10, n.d.)

Michele Bogard reflects that on a Jesuit service-learning immersion semester abroad program in the Dominican Republic, part of the curriculum was living with a host family for 10 days.

Families that had little to offer would sacrifice their family chicken so that the student would have a good meal. Students who were stuffed by the many courses offered didn’t dare turn down another helping since they didn’t want to offend their hospitality. By the end of the week, gratitude was expressed through hugs and tears as promises to come back in broken Spanish were made (and many times later kept). Students would often reflect on the enormity of the gift of hospitality they felt living in community.

I share these stories as I reflect on the disciples in the Gospel. They were sent as pairs to sit in family homes and graciously eat what was put in front of them. Their goal was to share the Good News. The Son of God was among them. The Novices? They were to find Christ within their pilgrimage. And our students? They were to find Christ among us as and within us as well.

Where in your life have you found yourself an unexpected evangelist? Where have you been, Christ’s love for another, so that you turn and say, “The Kingdom of God is at hand for you”? And perhaps when were you the one who was the recipient of God’s love as it was shared with you?

St. Luke, we pray for humility so that you 
inspire us to see Christ in one another. 
Make us all pilgrims on a journey, 
carrying with us only your love and your grace. 
Amen. (Bogard, 2025)

Don Schwager quotes “The Holy Spirit will inspire martyrs and teach believers,” by Cyril of Jerusalem, 430-543 A.D.

"You must also know that the Holy Spirit empowers the martyrs to bear witness... A person cannot testify as a martyr for Christ's sake except through the Holy Spirit. If 'no man can say "Jesus is Lord" except in the Holy Spirit' (1 Corinthians 12:3), will any man give his life for Jesus' sake except through the Holy Spirit?" (excerpt from CATECHETICAL LECTURES 16.21) (Schwager, n.d.)

The Word Among Us Meditation on Luke 10:1-9 comments that perhaps we look around our parish and see people who seem more talented, more involved, or closer to the Lord than we are. Or perhaps as a new convert and you feel less qualified than the “cradle Catholics” who have more experience. If that’s you, take Luke as your hero!

Rather than focusing on your weaknesses or shortcomings, think about what God has given you: your unique gifts, your passions, even your cultural background. If God has put some spiritual “labor” on your heart or if you feel drawn to a particular action or ministry, trust the Spirit and take the first step. It might just be what someone else needs to lead them closer to the Lord.

“Lord, thank you for calling even me to help build your kingdom!” (Meditation on Luke 10:1-9, n.d.)

Friar Jude Winkler comments on the texts for today and the relationship between Luke, Acts, and the Gospel.

StAnthonyCompanions · October 18, 2025

Fr. Mike Schmitz breaks down the dramatic events from our reading of 1 Maccabees today, including; Jonathan's new role as high priest, Demetrius' defeat in battle, and King Alexander Epiphanes formidable alliance with Egypt formed by marrying Cleopatra. In Sirach, Fr. Mike reminds us that the good qualities wives are called to possess are also applicable to husbands. Today we read 1 Maccabees 10, Sirach 26-27, and Proverbs 23:5-8.

Father Richard Rohr, OFM, introduces Poet and CAC staff member Drew Jackson who offers this poem, praying to find the courage of the prophets.

I wake in the morning and sink down into the quiet Center. 

Before the news and the heartbreak. 

Before the world becomes all fire and brimstone. 

Tell me, is this salvation? 

I could stay here, alone and away. 

I could place my life in the company of the undisturbed. 

But if I do, I will surely lose You. 

Friend of Sorrows. Acquaintance of Grief. 

Let this silence, then, become a bridge. 

Let me walk it to where Love is. 

At the edges. Amidst the rubble. 

Trudging among the bones 

Where the prophets call to the four winds 

And a Voice cries out saying Live! Live! 

Let this silence become a forgotten thing 

If it does not lead me to the hill 

Outside the camp.[1] (Rohr, n.d.)

We trust in Providence and the guidance of the Spirit to motivate our pilgrimage as disciples of Christ in loving service of all people we encounter on our journey.

References

Bogard, M. (2025, October 18). Daily Reflection October 18, 2025 | Creighton Online Ministries. Creighton Online Ministries. Retrieved October 18, 2025, from https://onlineministries.creighton.edu/daily-reflections/daily-reflection-october-18-2025 

Luke, CHAPTER 10. (n.d.). USCCB. Retrieved October 18, 2025, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/luke/10?1 

Meditation on Luke 10:1-9. (n.d.). Word Among Us. Retrieved October 18, 2025, from https://wau.org/meditations/2025/10/18/1409490/ 

Psalms, PSALM 145 | USCCB. (n.d.). Daily Readings. Retrieved October 18, 2025, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/psalms/145?10 

Rohr, R. (n.d.). Daily Meditations — Center for Action and Contemplation. Center for Action and Contemplation. Retrieved October 18, 2025, from https://cac.org/daily-meditations/the-prophetic-work-of-jesus-weekly-summary/ 

Schwager, D. (n.d.). The Holy Spirit Will Teach You What to Say. Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations – Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations. Retrieved October 18, 2025, from https://www.dailyscripture.net/daily-meditation/ 

2 Timothy, CHAPTER 4. (n.d.). USCCB. Retrieved October 18, 2025, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/2timothy/4?10