Wednesday of the Second Week of Easter

Today's Mass Readings

Jesus’ words in today’s gospel passage seem rather harsh for the Easter season! “the light came into the world, but people preferred darkness to light, because their works were evil. For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come toward the light, so that his works might not be exposed. But whoever lives the truth comes to the light, so that his works may be clearly seen as done in God” (Jn 3:19-21). Christ is that “light” that dispels all darkness. Think back to the beginning of the Easter Vigil service. Recall walking into the church in total darkness with only the Paschal candle to guide the way, like the pillar of fire in the desert trek of the Israelites of old. As the flame from the Easter candle was passed from person to person, the entire church was aglow, and it was then possible to begin to discern faces and details. When the light of Christ enters our hearts, it drives out all darkness.

We experience the light of Christ not only at Easter but each time we hear the readings at Mass or meditate on the scriptures. Fr. Jacques Philippe writes: “Scripture is like a mirror that enables us to know ourselves truly, both the good and the bad…This means taking a risk, because the Word can sometimes tell us things we do not want to hear. But ultimately it works for life, freedom, and peace” (Thirsting for Prayer). Each time we engage with the Word, we are face-to-face with Christ. His light reveals all the gray areas of our lives and we are invited to come closer to the source of that light to find healing and peace. Jesus appeals to us to turn over to him all of our sins, our hidden wounds, our fears, and our discouragement, to expose them to the brilliance of his loving mercy and there find life, illumination, and peace. “Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light for my path” (Ps 119:105).

Reflection by Br. Michael Marcotte, OSB