April 19, 2015
3rd Sunday of Easter
Last Sunday we listened to appearances of Jesus in the Gospel according to St. John. Today, the 3rd Sunday of Easter, we are listening to the appearance of the Risen Lord in the Gospel according to St. Luke. Between the two accounts there are some differences and commonality. The common elements of peace, presence and purpose become foundational in the believing community. Jesus greets the disciples with the words: “Peace be with you.†Jesus calms their fears. They are forgiven and entrusted with the ministry of reconciliation. The disciples become aware of Jesus in their midst. His presence is heavenly and earthly, corporal and spiritual. They recognize him in the breaking of the bread and reflecting on the Word of God. They are commissioned or given a purpose: to preach repentance and forgiveness of sins, to witness to the resurrection of Jesus Christ. We should hope to find these same characteristics of peace, presence and purpose in our faith community. If we do then, needless to say, we will experience Easter joy.
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2nd Sunday of Easter
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4th Sunday of Easter
