Come Holy Spirit
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Week 4: The Fruit of the Spirit: Peace
“The
fruit of the Spirit is… peace…”
— Galatians 5:22
Introduction:
A Stillness That Surpasses Understanding
Peace
is often misunderstood as the absence of noise, conflict, or trouble. But the
peace of the Holy Spirit goes far beyond that. It is a deep, unshakable
stillness, even in the midst of storms. It’s the peace Jesus offered when
He said, “My peace I give you” (John 14:27)—not the fragile peace of the
world, but a peace rooted in trust, surrender, and the indwelling presence of
God.
Peace
is the quiet confidence that God is here, and all will be well.
What
Does Scripture Say?
- John
14:27 – “Peace I
leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give
to you.”
- Philippians
4:7 – “Then the
peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and
minds in Christ Jesus.”
- Isaiah
26:3 – “You keep
him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in
you.”
Peace
is God’s gift to those who rest their lives in Him, even when life feels
uncertain.
What
Does the Church Say?
From
the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2304):
“Respect
for and development of human life require peace. Peace is not merely the
absence of war… Peace is the work of justice and the effect of charity.”
And
from the Compendium (480):
“Peace
is the tranquillity of order, the work of justice and the effect of charity.”
This
reminds us that true peace isn't passive—it’s active. It is born when
our hearts are aligned with God’s justice and filled with divine love. Peace is
a fruit of the Spirit because it flows naturally from a heart in communion with
Him.
How
Does Peace Connect with the Gifts of the Spirit?
- Wisdom leads us to trust in God’s plan
and surrender to His timing.
- Understanding helps us see the bigger picture
when we feel anxious or afraid.
- Counsel guides us toward decisions that
promote peace in our relationships and communities.
When
the gifts are at work, peace is the fruit that blossoms gently, often without
our realizing it. Others may notice the calm, grounded way we carry
ourselves—even when life is difficult.
Practicing
the Fruit of Peace
Growing
in peace means becoming a person of quiet trust, deep prayer, and gentle
presence. Here are ways to practice peace this week:
- Create
moments of silence:
Even five minutes of silence with the Holy Spirit can reset your heart.
Peace begins in stillness.
- Pray
slowly with Scripture:
Let a short verse (like John 14:27) become your anchor throughout the day.
Return to it often.
- Breathe
deeply, speak gently:
Let your words be wrapped in calm. Even under stress, choose words that
build bridges.
- Seek
reconciliation: Is
there someone you’re out of step with? Take a step toward healing, even if
it’s a small gesture.
- Trust
God with what you cannot control:
Write down your worries, then place them—symbolically or literally—into
God’s hands.
“Let
the peace of Christ rule in your hearts…” — Colossians 3:15
Journal
Opportunity: Reflecting on Peace
- What
does peace feel like to me? When have I felt closest to this kind of
peace?
- Where in
my life do I long for greater peace—externally or within?
- What
robs me of peace most often?
- How can
I become a more peaceful presence in my home, work, or parish?
- How
might the Holy Spirit be inviting me to receive and share peace today?
Closing
Prayer
Come,
Holy Spirit, Giver of Peace,
calm my anxious thoughts.
Teach me the kind of peace that doesn’t depend on circumstances.
Let my life reflect Your stillness, Your serenity, Your trust.
When my heart is troubled, remind me that You are near.
Make me a bearer of peace in a world that so desperately needs it.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.