Peace is understood in a positive sense as calmness, tranquility or quietness and good relationship with one another, as opposed to dissensions or disputes. An attitude that gives serenity and healthy relaxation to the spirit as opposed to perturbation and passions.

On a personal level, peace denotes an interior state free from negative sentiments. Social peace implies understanding between groups or social classes. When this is threatened, it is defined negatively as the absence of war.When the OT uses the expression “peace” (Shalom), it does so in a positive sense. As a greeting, it refers to spiritual and material welfare. It desires the totality of messianic attributes, the Messiah is called “Prince of peace” (cf. Is 9, 6) who comes to announce it even to those who do not belong to the people of God.

In the NT, the OT meaning is maintained but with the novelty that Jesus brings: Jesus brings peace, the blessings of salvation to humanity. In Ephesians it is said: “…Christ is our peace” (Eph 2, 14). The Jewish concept would be enriched from the Greek culture that would add to it the absence of enemies and obstacles. “…bear with one another in love. Make every effort to keep among you the unity of Spirit through bonds of peace. (Eph 4, 2).

In the globalized world situation in which we live, it is necessary to consider peace as a fundamental, indispensable value: without this personal serenity and social harmony our multiple interrelationships will be destructive. Only peace can bring prosperity and happiness. And these human benefits have to be made fruitful by Peace, fruit of the Spirit (Cf. Gal 5, 22) which has to be asked for with confidence and received with gratitude.

Prayer:Lord, make me an instrument of your Peace!Where there is hatred, let me sow love.Where there is injury, pardon.Where there is discord, harmony.Where there is doubt, faith.Where there is despair, hope.Where there is darkness, light.Where there is sorrow, joy.