Thursday in the Octave of Easter
Even though Jesus stands before his disciples as proof that he has risen from the dead, he is not content to let their faith rest strictly on what their eyes can see and their hands can touch. It is important to him, as it had been when speaking to the disciples on the road to Emmaus, to explain how his death and resurrection fulfilled the scriptures.
His resurrection is more than a fantastic miracle; it is the culmination of a plan God had from the beginning and has been carrying out in patient stages through his dealings with His chosen people. Only now, in light of Jesus’ death and resurrection, does the full meaning of the Old Testament shine forth.
And what is that meaning? “That repentance, for the forgiveness of sins, would be preached in Christ’s name to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem.”
The purpose of God’s plan, the purpose of Christ’s death and resurrection, the purpose of our celebration of Easter is that the one thing all human beings need–repentance and forgiveness of sins–must be preached to all people in all places, beginning then in Jerusalem; beginning this year in my home.
Reflection: To whom is Christ sending me to announce the Good News of God’s forgiveness and mercy?
Reflection by Abbot Benedict Neenan, OSB
Posted in Article for Easter, Daily Reflections