In the month of May, we traditionally reflect on the role of Mary, Mother of Jesus. Through the centuries, believers have oriented their prayer to meditate on many titles for the Virgin of Nazareth. This year, I find myself drawn to “Queen of Peace.”
Sometimes, when our children and grandchildren were young, we would offer direction in times of conflict. When conflict happens in our relationships, we can learn how to become agents of reconciliation – servants of Peace. Resolving conflict is a learned skill accomplished by communication and nourished by wisdom. Given the world situation, it is not a skill that is applied often enough.
There is much literature offering strategies for conflict resolution. Among the suggestions, the desire to reconcile and the ability to listen to each other are prerequisites.
In our families, conflict can happen over who gets the last piece of dessert, the privileged seat in the car, the bigger room, the more attention, greater praise, or the larger inheritance. Conflict can flare due to an unkind word, excessive teasing, a vindictive spirit, and on goes the list. We know when we feel hurt.
In the world at large, conflict can result from social evils and grave injustices.
Pope Paul VI famously observed, “If you want Peace, work for Justice.”
Resentment at perceived hurts or injustices can root our attitudes in a persistent feeling of grievance. Bitterness endures by imprisoning love. It avoids goodness and resists healing.
I think when Jesus taught His followers to love enemies, He liberated us from that which is not good. It ought to be a loving correction when faithful people call out the social evils of injustice and oppression. Based on a vision of reality, grounded in the truth, and committed to nonviolence, we seek the good of those who would harm us. Jesus proposed a demanding challenge. “But I say to you, love your enemies, pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44)
St. Paul advised, “Do not be conquered by evil but conquer evil with good.” (Romans 12:21)
Returning evil for evil does not reconcile, nor can it be the ground for a just society, a productive work environment, or a loving family.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you …” (John 14:27)
This May, let us pray in our families to the Mother of the Lord, Queen of Peace, to pray with us that we may awaken to Jesus’ gift of Peace.