Wednesday of the Fourth Week of Easter

Today's Mass Readings

While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said,
“Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” Acts 13.1.

R. O God, let all the nations praise you! Ps. 67.4

I came into the world as light,
so that everyone who believes in me might not remain in darkness. John 12:46.

The essence of light shines through the entire Paschal Season. Light has shone on us through Christ. We are not to remain in darkness all our lives. We are called to return to Christ who is our light and our truth. Now, I must make an honest confession. I am not a cheery Easter person. I am happy during Easter for the first two weeks of the Season. When the Easter Lillies lose their flowers is about the time I start to be “bah-humbug” and I feel salty towards the rest of the season. In spite of myself, I know this is a time to give thanks to God and celebrate. We are called to carry the “sanctum gaudium,” the holy joy, forward. This joy is not ecstatic and eclectic; it is sober and long-lasting. Lent was a time of preparation and Easter is the time for proclamation. How are you carrying the message forward? You are called by the Paraclete, the Holy Spirit, to a work that will benefit God’s Kingdom. Are you active enough in your parish? There are so many ways to promote and proclaim Jesus’ living essence to people. Take Holy Communion to the homebound and shut-ins. Call people you know who are isolated. Offer to help at Mass and liturgy by singing or serving. Initiate a food-drive for local people. Just know there is someone who needs your gifts during this Paschal Season. Amen.

Reflection by Br. Matthew Marie, OSB