Brothers and Sisters,
The Gospel reading this week describes the disciples’ fearful and anxious situation after the resurrection (Lk 24:35-48). They want to believe but lack confidence and understanding. They experience the sincere joy of seeing Christ resurrected but have not completely overcome their cautious disbelief. The two disciples from Emmaus recount their encounter with the others gathered in the upper room. Then Christ himself appears to them. Yet even when He is right there in front of them in their midst, they are slow to believe. Our Lord’s patient, accepting attitude is encouraging. He speaks His peace into their doubt and uncertainty. He even takes and eats a piece of fish to help them believe. We all have our moments of doubt and unbelief, and our moments of hesitation and inner resistance. We want to believe, but because it implies letting go of false securities, we are slow to fully trust. We need detachment and forgiveness. Christ aids our weakness by his closeness and his presence in our own circumstances. Jesus comes to us in our times of trouble and confusion. As Jesus points out, the scriptures all reveal God’s plan of salvation that was fulfilled through His life, death, and resurrection.
Christ is not a ghost. He is not a figment of their imagination, nor the result of their wishful thinking––something that was too good to be true. Christ is more real than our fears. His grace is stronger than any of our weakness. His mercy is more powerful than our sin, and His love for us conquers even death itself. As the disciples have mixed reactions to his presence, He invites them to trust their senses and reflect in faith. Reflection and contemplation of the scriptures in faith always leads to the truth of Christ. Leading to his peace and love reigning in our life. Because of this, we are His witnesses. Is Christ’s presence and peace alive in your life?
He is risen!!
Hope you have a blessed Easter season.
Deacon Howard
