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The readings for today, though chosen to celebrate the feast of St. Mark, vibrate with the sentiments of this Easter season. The Gospel acclamation surprisingly celebrates the death of Christ Jesus on the Cross. What was deemed to be shameful becomes a sign of something to be celebrated. This is a message that has been repeated time and again but something that can never be understood.
Peter's message to the new followers of the Way is a manifestation of unconditional belief in the Paschal mystery - there is life after death, there is boundless joy after a brief period of suffering and this we believe only because Jesus rose from the dead. Suffering to a believer is salvific, not because suffering is positive in itself but because of the promise of lasting joy, because of the promise of life after death, resurrection after the passion.
Lord Jesus, there are moments when I feel that my pain is too much to bear. In those moments I seek desperately for relief from suffering. Give me, Lord, the courage to endure suffering as you did. Remind me, Lord, in times of suffering that there is eternal joy waiting for me just as you rose from the dead to become Lord and Saviour for all eternity.
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DAILY OFFERING
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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.
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PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
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INTENTION
That young people may respond generously to their vocations and seriously consider offering themselves to God in the priesthood or consecrated life.
Elaboration
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