Divine Mercy Sunday

 

Today we celebrate the Second Sunday of Easter also known as Divine Mercy Sunday. Some twenty-one years ago, Pope John Paul II proclaimed that the Second Sunday of Easter would be celebrated as Divine Mercy Sunday. This was proclaimed at the Canonization Mass of St. Faustina Kawalska, who worked throughout her life to make all aware of the merciful love of God.

In today’s Gospel, we hear the familiar story of Jesus’ appearance to the disciples while Thomas was not present and his reaction.  Thomas refused to believe without seeing – he needed proof that Jesus had indeed appeared to the others. Like Thomas, we too, are called to believe without seeing.  Thomas’ lack of belief should not surprise us.  He was reacting out of fear and grief. He wanted hard evidence that the Jesus who appeared to the other disciples was indeed the same Jesus who he saw crucified.  Thomas needed to see and feel his Lord.  A week later he would get his wish when Jesus would come again to the disciples gathered in the upper room.  Each time Jesus came, He greeted them with a greeting of peace.   “Now a week later his disciples were again inside and Thomas was with them. Jesus came, although the doors were locked, and stood in their midst and said, “Peace be with you.”  (John 26)

With Thomas as our model, we can have great hope.  Even when our fears overcome us Jesus is still there for us.  We are blessed as we believe without having seen.  As we continue the Easter journey let us always remember that Jesus is always there for us and we are called to show mercy to all those we encounter.