The following is taken from Improve:Now is the Acceptable Time! distributed by the Archconfraternity of Christian Mothers.
Note: Fr. Lester has kindly permitted me to use these excerpts daily. Please click HERE to learn more about the Archconfraternity of Christian Mothers and to consider joining them as a member.
"The famous song 'Let there be Peace on Earth' hits the nail on the head. The theme is 'Let it begin with ME.' Are you at peace right now? Maybe, because of a misunderstanding, you are not talking to your husband, sister or brother, relative or one of your own children.
Two years ago the neighbor's dog ran through your flower bed. You haven't forgiven the dog yet, let alone the neighbor".
...As We Forgive
"Then we go to church and pray or sing: 'Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.' But, in human weakness, we are thinking: 'If I ever ha a chance to get even with her, she'll get it right in the neck.' Isn't it tough o be a Christian?
Don't listen to your friends who tell you 'Why should you apologize and make peace? It was not your fault.' That's not what the song says: 'Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with ME.' Make the first move even if your friends think that you are getting the short end of the deal. You'll sleep better at night."
We Almost Choke
"Many a divorced couple would still be together if they had learned to say: 'I'm sorry. Please, forgive me.' Something inside of us rebels. We almost choke to say: 'Please, forgive me.'"
"Get Rid of..."
"Christ was being nailed on a cross and said: 'Father, forgive them. They don't know what they are doing to Me.' Take the advice of St. Paul: 'Get rid of all bitterness, all passion and anger, harsh words, slander and malice of every kind. In place of these, be kind to one another. God has forgiven you in Christ.' Eph.4:29-32
In one of the new Masses of Reconciliation, part of the Preface reads this way: In the midst of conflict and division, we know that it is You Who turn our minds to thoughts of peace. Your Spirit changes our hearts: enemies begin to speak to one another, those who were estranged join hands in friendship, and nations seek the ways of peace together. Your Spirit is at work when understanding puts an end to strife, when hatred is quenched by mercy, and vengeance gives way to forgiveness.'"
An End of Strife
Now if you are not at peace, pray hard for guidance. Then act. 'Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with ME.'"
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