Here are some of the themes in the Mass readings for the 2nd Sunday of Easter.
1st Reading – Acts of the Apostles 4:32-35
The community of believers was of one heart and mind, sharing everything in common.
The apostles bore witness to the resurrection of Jesus, and there was no needy person among them.
Psalm – 118:2-4,13-15,22-24
“Give thanks to the Lord for he is good, his love is everlasting.”
Even when we are hard pressed and falling, the Lord helps us and fills us with joy.
2nd Reading – 1st John 5:1-6
When we love God and obey his commandments we know that we love the children of God.
The Spirit testifies truly that Jesus is the Son of God who came through water and blood.
Gospel – John 20:19-31
On the evening of the first day of the week, Jesus appears to the disciples; however, Thomas is absent, and he scoffs at the disciples when they tell him what happened.
Jesus appears a week later in the same locked room, and Thomas comes to faith in the Risen Lord.
In many ways, we all identify with St. Thomas the Apostle, who overcame his doubts about the resurrection of Jesus after he encountered the Risen Lord.
The skepticism of Thomas is familiar to many of us. Let’s face it, it’s easy to doubt and question even in the best situations! Yet in the end Thomas makes a profession of faith that inspires us to overcome our own doubts as we follow the Lord.
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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.
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.
Three Great Things 