I have a small candle which I light occasionally during times of prayer and reflection. The aroma is pleasant and mild, and on the outside of the candle are the words ‘peace and tranquility.’ Though the candle helps create a quiet, prayerful environment and encourages me to focus my thoughts, I’m not sure it actually brings about peace and tranquility as advertised. I wish it was that easy! Regardless of its soothing name, this candle provides the same calming element as the other candles I use which have less emotional names such as mountain lodge, pink sands, and wild violet. I find similar titles when I listen to relaxing music (what I refer to as massage music). Many of those song titles include very inviting notions such as serenity, rest, angelic, etc. Though there’s something about these labels that draws us in, do they lead us to the peace, tranquility, or rest we are seeking? They probably don’t, but perhaps they are worthy instruments.
While we welcome these instruments of focus and peace – whether candles, music, or other consoling pieces of art – we know in faith that the true peace and tranquility our hearts seek are found only in God. Our relationship with the Lord, our trust in the Lord, and our hope in the Lord are the avenues that will lead us. Sadly, our peace and tranquility have been recently shattered following the horrible injuries and loss of life due to multiple acts of violence. In our grief and anger, our prayer is for the deep consolation also found only in God. In a homily on healing, Pope Leo XIV shared with listeners that confusion becomes clarity and despair becomes unshakable hope – only God can do this. He is our true source of peace and hope.
As we mourn for these victims and offer them and their families to God’s loving and compassionate care, we also invite His consoling peace to work in our hearts. My favorite line from my favorite bible verses (Matt 5:3-12, the Beatitudes) is “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (Matt 5:9) Especially now, as children of God, let us pray for ways that we can be people of peace and tranquility and instruments of God’s healing love.
Journeying to Grace 