Sunday, April 12: My Lord and My God
Second Sunday of Easter (Divine Mercy Sunday)
First Reading: Acts 2:42-47
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24
Second Reading: 1 Peter 1:3-9
Gospel: John 20:19-31
The Theme: The Breath of Peace
As we continue our "Radiating Truth" journey, we move into the Octave of Easter. To Seek Peace is the first command of the Risen Christ. In the upper room, Jesus doesn't offer a peaceful environment—the doors are locked for fear—but He offers a Peace that surpasses understanding. This Sunday, often called Divine Mercy Sunday, reminds us that the "Forge" of our trials is where Christ meets us to breathe new life into our weary souls.
Connecting the Word
The Living Hope (1 Peter & John): St. Peter speaks of a "new birth into a living hope" through the Resurrection. In the Gospel, Thomas moves from the death of doubt to the living hope of faith. The "Radiating Truth" here is that our faith doesn't require us to never have doubted, but to be willing to touch the wounds of Christ and find our healing there.
The Community of One Heart (Acts & John): The early Church in Acts lived with "gladness and simplicity of heart." This is our Vision for Pax and Ponder—a supportive community that shares the Word and the bread. Just as Jesus stood in the midst of the disciples, He stands in the midst of our community today.
Pondering the Gospel
Like the Blessed Mother (Luke 2:19), we are invited to ponder the wounds of Jesus. Notice that the Risen Christ kept His wounds. They are no longer signs of defeat, but trophies of His mercy.
Do I try to hide my own "wounds" from God, or do I allow Him to breathe His Peace into them?
How can I, like Thomas, move from a place of "locked doors" in my heart to a bold proclamation of "My Lord and my God"?
Reflection Questions
Seeking Peace: Jesus says, "Peace be with you" three times in this Gospel. In what area of my life is the "door locked" by fear right now? How can I invite the Risen Lord into that room?
Building Community: The early Christians "owned everything in common." In our modern "Forge" of work and stress, how can I share the "Radiating Truth" of God's mercy with a coworker or neighbor who is struggling to believe?
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