Today we celebrate the second Sunday of Easter, Divine Mercy Sunday. The first reading, from Acts, tells of the apostles drawing more and more people to their number, continuing Jesus’ mission. The second reading, from Revelation, continues this theme; St. Paul is given a vision that represents his ongoing mission, to guide the seven communities of faith (represented by the seven gold lampstands) and help them stay on the right track. In the Gospel, we hear of Jesus appearing to the disciples (not yet apostles) on Easter evening. He gives them His peace, but he also gives them an important instruction… “as the Father has sent me, so I send you.” We also hear of Thomas’ lack of faith when Jesus’ visit was relayed to him, and of how Jesus appeared again a week later to convince Thomas, and His proclamation that those who have not seen but believe are blessed.

Like the apostles, we, too, are blessed…we who believe in the Risen Christ Jesus. But just as we receive the blessing that Jesus described to Thomas, we also receive the same mission as the first apostles. We, too, are sent into the world to proclaim the Good News of Easter…enthusiastically and joyfully, as the first apostles did. The divine mercy of Jesus, which we celebrate today, is for everyone to experience, and our mission is to help them along the way. Although we are not celebrating Pentecost yet, we received the same Spirit who caused such a striking change in the disciples. May that Spirit move within us and guide us as we continue the mission Jesus sets before each of us.

Reflection by Parishioner John Ceglarek