Saturday in the Octave of Easter
From Doubters to Evangelists.
Peter and John were filled with zeal and faith as they stood before the Sanhedrin. They spoke boldly of Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, as they did on Pentecost. But shortly before, according to Mark’s gospel, they did not believe Mary Magdalen and the disciples returned from Emmaus when they said they had seen the Lord. Jesus had to appear to them face-to-face before they put their faith in him. Apparently, all the apostles were doubting Thomases.
We have not seen the risen Lord face-to-face, and it may have taken us time to accept the testimony of his disciples, saints, and martyrs, passed on from generation to generation. But the witnesses we have heard this week in the scriptures and the faith of our ancestors urge us to accept Jesus’ command to “go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature.” We can begin to do that by allowing Christ to guide our actions. Or, as St. Francis of Assisi said, “Preach the Gospel at all times; when necessary, use words.”
Reflection by Abbot Benedict Neenan, OSB
Posted in Article for Easter, Daily Reflections