On this octave of Easter, the Gospel reveals to us a saving encounter. Peter and John have seen the empty tomb. Mary Magdalene has seen the Lord, and runs to tell the good news to the other disciples. You would think they would be out celebrating. But they are not. Afraid of the same authorities who had put their Lord and Teacher to death, they are in lockdown: hiding behind locked doors, afraid to let anyone in.
Easter comes to us as fitfully as it did to the first disciples. We carry to the tombs of our lives the same mixture of doubt, fear, certainty, anxiety, and joy that the disciples brought to Jesus’ tomb. He always seems to choose for witnesses the most unlikely prospects, ourselves included.
Take Thomas, for instance. If Thomas—stubbornly insistent on tangible proof—can believe, maybe there’s hope for everyone. Doubt isn’t evil; it’s the entryway to hope.
It was Friday afternoon at 2:30 when I took my place on a street corner in front of the courthouse. The temperature was 32 degrees and the sky was grey as snow flurried around us. I came to join a small group in a vigil protesting the death penalty and executions.
I held a sign that said: “Blessed are the peacemakers.” Others held signs that read: “Stop executions” and “Do not kill in my name.” Some passersby honked in support, some drove by without reaction and others gestured in disagreement.
This week's reflection comes from Sharon Di Fruscia
How comfortable we are in our own little world, our own secure space, with familiar routines and like-minded people. A “Please Do Not Disturb” sign written boldly for all to heed. God does not want us to remain in our comfortable pew. He challenges us to change, which leads to growth, which leads to a better understanding of God’s plans for us, for his people and for all creation.
Journey to Resurrection: The Art and Virtue of Alms-Giving
GuestMarch 10, 2021
This week's reflection comes from Sharon Di Fruscia
In this present time, poverty and homelessness are important issues not only for the global south but also for our country, even our own city. Therefore monetary almsgiving is much needed by so many organizations working to alleviate the sufferings of God’s people in all parts of this world.
St. Monica's Parish