3 Apr
Sun
2nd Sunday of Easter
Divine Mercy Sunday
Acts 5:12-16
Ps. 118(117):2-4,22-24,25-27a
Rev. 1:9-11a,12-13,17-19
Jn. 20:19-31
(Psalter Proper)
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Today's readings are very optimistic. They reflect the confidence and drive of a new enterprise. The confidence, properly understood, was fully justified. Things indeed looked good for the newly born Christian Church. The writers, however, were realistic enough to include some warnings that things might not always go so well. They were aware that opponents might step up their attacks when they became more aware of the danger the Church posed to them.

The first reading notes that some did not dare to join the widely admired new believers. John is writing from enforced exile for proclaiming God's word. In the Gospel the disciples were meeting behind closed doors "for fear of the Jews".

Now, perhaps more than ever, when some of our media outlets are painting a dark picture of human activity we need the confidence of the early Christians. However, we need to be aware of some possible related dangers that we may artificially create based on a false optimism rather than on any reality or on Christ. But as Christians we have always worked successfully with God and we realise how much we could do with his help and how little we could do without it. Contemplate for a moment Thomas' total gloom before Christ came to him and his joy on meeting his Lord and his God.




Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God. (John 6:68-69)




DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That small farmers may receive a just reward for their precious labour.
Elaboration

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