Giving an Account on Account of Peace

Greetings on this the Thursday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time
Readings: Gn 44:18-21, 23b-29; 45:1-5; Ps 105:16-17, 18-19, 20-21; Mt 10:7-15
Notes: God of hosts, bring us back; let your face shine on us and we shall be saved (PS 79 x-ref LOTH).

Lord God, help up remain in your Son as branches on the vine, that, planted firmly in your love, we may testify before the whole world to your great power working everywhere. Amen.

So then each of us shall give an account of himself to God. Then let us no longer judge one another, but rather resolve never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother. For the kingdom of God is not a matter of food and drink, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the holy Spirit; whoever serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by others. Let us then pursue what leads to peace and to building up one another (ROM 14:12-13, 17-19).

You remember…

Jacob and Esau came to peace.
Now, Joseph and his brothers came to peace.

And, frankly, they all had reasons to keep the feud going.
It’s pretty easy to get stuck in one’s own recollection, opinions and feelings.

But before God and His plan, we can see the divine will changing the negative into the positive. A conversion of fact itself.

Even though you meant harm to me, God meant it for good, to achieve this present end, the survival of many people (Gen 50:20). Because once we ourselves give an account of ourselves to God, we no longer judge one another with condemnation but seek the good and well-being of all.

As you enter a house, wish it peace. If the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it; if not, let your peace return to you.

It is not our decision but the individual soul’s right to accept or reject peace.

Peace without judgment.
Giving an Account on Account of Peace.

First Reading
I am your brother Joseph, whom you once sold into Egypt. But now do not be distressed, and do not reproach yourselves for having sold me here. It was really for the sake of saving lives that God sent me here ahead of you.

Responsorial
Remember the marvels the Lord has done.

Gospel Acclamation
The Kingdom of God is at hand: repent and believe in the Gospel.

Gospel
Jesus said to his Apostles: “As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons. As you enter a house, wish it peace.

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry