Divine Mercy Sunday

The readings for this Second Sunday of Easter are about mercy, trust and the forgiveness of sins.  In the opening prayer we hear God addressed as the "God of everlasting Mercy." The readings this day also illustrate God’s mercy in action.  How does God reveal His mercy?  He reveals his mercy first and foremost by sending his Son to become our Savior.  Last week we celebrated Easter – Jesus’ resurrection from death to life.  In the early Church Jesus’ Apostles showed mercy in their preaching and healing.  Their ministry was not easy but their resolve was tremendous.  They continued to preach, teach and heal in the face of many obstacles.  Today’s gospel recounts for us Jesus’ first appearance to the disciples in the locked upper room when Thomas was not present.  Just like Thomas we are called to believe without seeing and to surrender our lives to the risen Lord of mercy.  During this special year of Mercy let us ask our loving God to open our hearts so that we may receive his Mercy in the form of His Holy Spirit and share it with all those we meet. 

Pat Schifini, OSU