On this 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C, we are blessed to celebrate the International Peace Mass. Our liturgy today invites us to reflect deeply on what real peace is, and how we, as followers of Christ, can be true peacemakers in a world so often divided by violence, greed, and injustice.

In the First Reading, the prophet Amos (Amos 8:4–7) strongly condemns those who cheat the poor, exploit the weak, and use dishonest measures in trade. His message is clear: there can be no peace without justice. If society is built on greed and oppression, it will always remain restless and divided. True peace requires fairness, honesty, and care for the vulnerable.

In the Second Reading, St. Paul (1 Timothy 2:1–8) calls on us to pray for everyone, especially for leaders, so that “we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and dignity.” Prayer is the foundation of peace. Before we can bring peace to the world, our hearts must first be at peace with God. Prayer transforms us into people who can forgive, reconcile, and love.

In the Gospel (Luke 16:1–13), Jesus gives us the parable of the dishonest steward and concludes with a strong teaching: “No servant can serve two masters… You cannot serve both God and money.” Many conflicts in our world arise from greed—greed for wealth, greed for power, greed for control. Where money is the master, peace disappears. But where God is the master, peace flourishes. For God’s way is always the way of mercy, truth, and reconciliation.

So, as we celebrate this International Peace Mass, let’s remember that

Peace begins with God. If our hearts are with Him, then selfishness, hatred, and fear cannot rule us.

Peace requires justice. Without fairness and respect for human dignity, peace is only an illusion.

Peace begins with us. In our families, communities, workplaces, and parishes. Every word of kindness, every act of forgiveness, every hand extended in service plants the seed of peace.

Brothers and sisters, our world longs for peace: peace in nations torn by war, peace in societies divided by hatred, and peace in homes wounded by conflict. Jesus calls us not only to pray for peace, but to live peace. And He promises us: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9)

As we share in this Eucharist, may Christ, the Prince of Peace, reign in our hearts. May He give us the courage to reject greed and division, to serve God alone, and to build peace wherever we go. Then truly we will be called the children of God.

Amen.

 By Fr. Henry Oo