THE PEACE OF CHRIST VERSUS THE PEACE OF THE WORLD

 

Homily for the Sixth Sunday of Easter, Year C

Fr. Ugochukwu Ugwoke, ISch

Bible Texts: Acts 15:1-2, 22-29; Revelation 21:10-14, 22-23; John 14:23-29

Some years ago, I met a man who, by all appearances, had it all. A thriving business, beautiful family, luxury cars, frequent travels, and the kind of lifestyle many people only dream of. But in a quiet conversation one day, he admitted to me: “Father, I cannot sleep at night. My heart is restless. I have everything - except peace.” That struck me deeply. It reminded me that peace does not come from possessions, status, or success. It comes from a Person. It comes from a presence. 

This is exactly what Jesus promises us in today’s Gospel: a peace the world cannot give. He says to his disciples, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you” (John 14:27). This speaks of a divine peace that comes not through perfect circumstances, but through obedience to God, guidance of the Holy Spirit, and communion with Him.

The first reading from Acts of the Apostles presents a major conflict in the early Church: must Gentile converts be circumcised to be saved? This question threatened the unity of the Christian community. Some Jewish Christians insisted on Mosaic practices, while Paul and Barnabas argued that salvation is through grace, not the law. What is striking is how the early Church resolved this crisis. They turned to prayer, dialogue, and the discernment of the Holy Spirit (Acts 15:28).

This is the first example of synodality - walking together, listening to the Spirit, and remaining united in faith. The situation in the first reading teaches us that peace in the Church is not the absence of conflict but the presence of the Spirit guiding us through conflict. As such, when we face disagreements - in families, communities, or the Church - we must seek the Spirit’s guidance rather than rely solely on human logic or pride.

In the second reading, we see John’s breathtaking vision of the New Jerusalem. He sees a holy city coming down from heaven, filled with light - not from the sun or moon - but from the glory of God and the Lamb (Christ). This city represents the Church perfected, the community of believers living in peace and full communion with God. Its foundation is the Apostolic teaching - the twelve apostles - and its light is Christ Himself. This reminds us that the ultimate goal of our Christian journey is communion, not just doctrine or rituals. The Church exists to radiate Christ to the world and as its members we are called to be “living stones” (1 Peter 2:5) of this spiritual temple. Each act of love, each stand for truth, and every time we live the Gospel, we become part of this radiant city.

In the Gospel, Jesus prepares his disciples for his departure. But he assures them: “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our dwelling with him.” This is one of the most profound promises in all of Scripture - that the Trinity desires to make a home in us. God does not just want our obedience; He desires relationship, presence, intimacy.

He also gives them the gift that surpasses all human comfort: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you.” Worldly peace is conditional - based on external circumstances: job security, financial stability, absence of conflict. But Jesus gives a peace that remains even in suffering, because it is rooted in his presence and the Holy Spirit. And what is the role of the Holy Spirit? “The Advocate…will teach you everything and remind you of all that I told you.” The Holy Spirit is our divine Teacher, Comforter, and Counselor. He reminds us of Jesus’ words when we are confused, gives us strength when we are weak, and brings peace when our hearts are restless.

As followers of Christ, we are called to be agents of this peace - not conflict. Our world is hungry for peace - real peace. That peace is not found in riches or weapons, but in a heart that welcomes Jesus and obeys his Word. Let us embrace the peace that Christ offers - a peace that no persecution, hardship, disappointment, or even death can take away. “Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.” Christ lives in you. And where he dwells, peace reigns. Amen.