Sunday, April 28 // 2nd Sunday of Easter

Reading I: Acts 5:12-16
Responsorial Psalm 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24
Reading II: Revelation 1:9-11a, 12-13, 17-19
Gospel: John 20:19-31

I sometimes feel sad when we forget that Easter is not one day but 50 days! Today’s Gospel may reflect the growing understanding in the early Christian communities about the significance of Jesus’ resurrection. Thomas, one of the Twelve, is at first skeptical about the reports that Jesus is alive. But when he encounters the risen Jesus, he says “My Lord and my God!” Can we say the same? Can we live as if we truly believe that Jesus is Lord and God? Can we celebrate this Good News throughout the Easter Season?

When Jesus appears to his disciples on the evening after his resurrection, he wishes them peace. Our lector workbook has some beautiful things to say about this greeting. Peace is more than the absence of conflict. Jesus is wishing his first followers “the blessing of full life, well-being, health, prosperity, and everything one might wish for a complete life.” Jesus wishes these things for us as well. He was hoping for true peace, not only for the victims of the attacks in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday, but also for their attackers. It is we humans who, far too often, refuse to accept the peace that Jesus offers.

During this Easter Season, may we, as 21st century disciples, work to bring peace, real peace, to our world.

Sheryl Zabel
Pastoral Minister, RCIA Coordinator