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Meditation for Sunday, April 24, 2022,
Gospel of St. John 20: 19-31
It is a joy to be with you, on this Second Sunday of Easter, also known to me as Divine Mercy Sunday; and although my presence is virtual, my spirit is very much with you.
This Sunday serves as a reminder that Christ, in his infinite mercy, invites us to believe that we can make a difference in the lives of those who may at times doubt that the times we are living can be overcome with faith, hope, and love.
Eight days after Jesus resurrected, he appeared to his disciples and says, “Peace be with you, as God has sent me, so I send you” and he followed that with, “receive the Holy Spirit”.
Peace is the gift the risen Christ offers us in situations that seem downright challenging.
And yet, even in challenging times, the Peace of Christ that swells in each one of us, gives us the ability to believe, that even though immediate changes may not occur… it is the presence and power of the Holy Spirit helps us see a little bit farther, love a bit harder, hope a little bit longer and pray with a faith that moves even the greatest of doubters.
Yet, we believe that the presence of the Holy Spirit that connects each one of us, makes a difference in our lives and the lives of others.
Thomas wasn’t present on Jesus’ first visit … but he was on the second. We are familiar with the story … Thomas needed to see to believe. And once he did …
Jesus affirmed: Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.”
We have lived and are living challenging times, and yet, we believe, even when the world is not at peace, it is our faith that allow our prayers to grow wings and make a difference where it counts.
Blessed are we, for we don’t cease in praying.
Blessed are we because we believe that the Resurrected Christ invites us to love and heal deeper, to be merciful even to greatest unbeliever.
We are blessed when our hope sees through doubt and allow the Spirit to fill us to the brim with the power of Christ’s love.
On this Second Sunday of Easter, may you be filled to the brim, overflowing with a faith that is bigger than your fear; with a hope that seeks to understand others through Christ’s mercy and love.
May you be blessed abundantly, in all things! Amen!
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