Dr. Helen Titilola OLOJEDE

Peace, as a fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), is imparted by the Holy Spirit, and it is far more than the absence of conflict or disturbance. It is an interior state of harmony that arises from a right relationship with God and a life lived in accordance with divine will. It is not dependent on external conditions, which may often be uncertain or troubled, but is rooted in the presence of grace within the soul.

When Jesus Christ speaks of giving his peace, he distinguishes it from worldly peace, which is fragile and easily lost. This divine peace is enduring, steady, and capable of sustaining the believer even amid trials. It reflects a heart that trusts in God’s providence and remains anchored in faith despite changing circumstances.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church describes peace as the “tranquillity of order”, meaning that one’s inner life is rightly ordered under God. This suggests that peace is not accidental but the result of a well-formed conscience and disciplined spiritual life. It involves the integration of thoughts, desires, and actions in a way that aligns with truth and goodness. When the soul is disordered by sin or excessive attachment to worldly concerns, peace is disturbed. Conversely, when one lives in obedience to God and seeks what is just and loving, peace naturally grows. This understanding highlights that peace is both a gift of grace and a task that requires cooperation with the Holy Spirit in daily living.

To gain and deepen this peace, the Church teaches the importance of prayer and the sacraments as channels of divine grace. Participation in the Eucharist nourishes the believer with the presence of Christ and strengthens the bond of communion with God. Similarly, the Sacrament of Reconciliation restores peace when it has been lost through sin, offering forgiveness and renewal. Through regular prayer, especially moments of silence and contemplation, the heart becomes attuned to God’s presence and learns to rest in Him. This interior stillness enables the believer to respond to life’s challenges with calmness rather than anxiety, trusting that God’s grace is sufficient in all circumstances.

We can also cultivate peace through the practice of charity, patience, and forgiveness in everyday relationships. The disturbances that often trouble the heart, such as resentment, anger, and fear, are gradually healed when one chooses love and mercy.

 

This echoes the popular prayer of St Francis of Assisi –

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:
where there is hatred, let me sow love;

where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy.
O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek…