Released from custody, Peter and John return to the disciples to recount what happened. As they pray, the Holy Spirit comes upon them while the ground shakes and they preach with boldness.
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“Doubting Thomas” speaks to a common trait in our human hearts, especially with people who are uncertain about Jesus. May the three options offered in this homily help us to engage the skeptics in our lives with grace of God.
Mark’s Gospel recounts three times Jesus appears to his disciples: Mary Magdalene; two disciples on the road; and then to the Eleven…slowly helping them understand the truth of His resurrection.
On the Sea of Galilee during a pilgrimage in December 2019.
As the Risen Lord appears for a third time to the disciples on the Sea of Galilee, we see how God continues to direct our lives and tug at our hearts. May we follow Christ with joy!
The Lord’s revelation to the disciples in Luke’s Gospel is transmitted to the crowd through the preaching of St. Peter. May our minds be opened by the Lord so that we can pass on the faith that we have received as well.
Both St. Peter and St. Mary Magdalene reveal the transformation caused by the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Empowered by the Risen Lord, they boldly proclaim the Good News with joy.
The words of Jesus to the two women and the proclamation of Peter reveal how fear has been cast out of the hearts of the disciples by the power of the resurrection. May this be true for us as well!
Serve: What do the readings make me do or say…today?
Let’s take a look at some of the main themes of the readings for the 2nd Sunday of Easter.
1st Reading – Acts 4:32-35
The Early Church shares all things in common; no one suffers from grave need.
The apostles offer their witness to the resurrection of Christ; they are filled with great power.
Psalm – 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24
The “stone rejected by the builders has become the cornerstone” now applies to Jesus.
Christ was rejected, and submitted to the agony of the Cross; Christ’s resurrection now becomes the cornerstone of our faith in God.
Our strength and courage from the Lord, who is our savior.
2nd Reading – 1 John 5:1-6
Everyone who believes in Christ is empowered to love God and one another. Our love for the Lord empowers us to keep his commandments.
Our faith in Christ leads to a victory that conquers the world.
Gospel – John 20:19-31
Jesus appears to the disciples, offering them peace and the Holy Spirit.
Jesus appears to the disciples (this time with Thomas) and speaks about those who have not seen the Risen Lord but who in faith overcome their doubt and believe.
