Thursday in the Octave of Easter

Today's Mass Readings

Jesus has been raised from the dead, but he still bears the wounds of his crucifixion in his hands, feet, and side. They did not vanish when he was restored to life, but they no longer cause him pain or threaten him in any way. They are the marks that identify him as the Savior who underwent death but could not be conquered by it. They are the badges of honor that proclaim that he has put all people before himself by accepting the penalty of sin in their place. He was tested by suffering and death, but he emerged from that test with a greater life than before, one that could no longer die. It would be a shame to lose these wounds because he earned each of them, and he will never forget those for whom he embraced those wounds.

This is what Christ offers each of us if we believe in him. Just as he experienced suffering and death, so will his faithful undergo trials and tribulations that will wound us and eventually take our life from us. But this suffering and death is not the end but the beginning of the new life that we will receive from him – a life that can no longer die. And, like it is for him, the wounds that we received from embracing the cross and following in his footsteps will remain as a testament to our faith, that we walked with Christ and were transformed ever more into his likeness. The wounds of the Risen Christ remain so that all may know him, and they will know him when they see us persevere in our own wounds with joy and hope.

Reflection by Fr. Victor Schinstock, OSB