What kind of peace do you seek? Merriam-Webster defines “peace” as tranquility, quiet, freedom from disturbance, harmony and similar expressions. Today, let us take a look at what Jesus might mean when he says, “my peace I give to you.”

In today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks some of His most tender and reassuring words: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.” These words are not merely poetic or comforting—they are a divine promise, spoken on the eve of His Passion, when chaos was about to unfold.

Jesus knew His disciples would be shaken. He knew fear would grip them as He went to the cross. And yet, He says: “Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.” Why? Because the peace He offers is not the fragile, fleeting peace the world gives. The peace of Christ is rooted not in circumstances, but in His presence and victory over sin and death.

We might ask ourselves: What kind of peace do I seek? Is it merely the absence of conflict? The comfort of routine? Or is it the deep, abiding peace that comes from knowing I am loved and held by God—even in suffering?

Jesus’ peace is not a promise of a smooth life. It’s a promise of His presence in the midst of life’s storms. That’s why He could say with such confidence: “I am going away and I will come back to you.” He was preparing them not only for the cross, but for the resurrection, and the coming of the Holy Spirit.

Notice, too, His obedience: “The world must know that I love the Father and that I do just as the Father has commanded me.” Peace and obedience go hand in hand. When we surrender our will to the Father, even if it’s difficult, we receive a peace that cannot be taken away.

Today, let us invite Christ’s peace into our hearts. Not a peace that depends on everything going well, but the peace that flows from trusting in the One who has conquered the world.

May we, like Jesus, live in obedience to the Father’s will, and so be signs of His peace to a troubled world.

Amen.

Image credit: Christ’s Final Address to the Apostles | Bona Duccio di Buoninsegna, 1380 | from the Maesta Altar | Siena, Museo dell’Opera del Duomo | PD-US