Second Sunday of Easter
Sunday of Divine Mercy
Lectionary: 44 (NAB Translation) (Jerusalem Bible Translation)
Divine Mercy Image
This is the great feast of Mercy which was proclaimed by John Paul II to fulfill the desires of Jesus as expressed to St Faustina. It’s a beautiful day to focus on the Divine Mercy of Jesus that seeks to forgive our sins and embrace sinners.
Reading 1
Acts 4:32-35
This week’s first reading from the Acts of the Apostles shows us former Jews as examples of leaving old lives behind. In these early communities they had unprecedented mixing of cultures and classes, and the communities shared their resources to care for all.
The way these communities unselfishly shared is similar to a family, and it serves as a vivid reminder of the bond that we have with our brothers and sisters in Christ. We truly are our brother’s keeper, even when it’s difficult and uncomfortable.
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24
- (1) Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, his love is everlasting.
Reading 2
1 John 5:1-6
This week’s second reading St John’s first letter addresses a difficult situation. At this time, there were some in the community that were teaching false doctrine and not living a Christian lifestyle. St John reminds us that in order to truly live in the life of Christ, we must live according to His commandments and our lives should testify to His Truth and resurrection.
Alleluia
John 20:29
- Alleluia, alleluia.
You believe in me, Thomas, because you have seen me, says the Lord;
blessed are those who have not seen me, but still believe!
Gospel
John 20:19-31
In this second Sunday of Easter, we see Jesus’ first encounter with the Apostles after they had abandoned Him in His final moments. Despite this weakness and rejection, Jesus doesn’t come back to yell at them or expresses His frustration. Jesus come and gives them peace and forgiveness.
This is the entire reason that Jesus came to earth in the Incarnation, so that He could win us our salvation and offer us new life through His Divine Mercy and forgiveness of sins.
Gospel Meditation from Bishop Joe Vásquez
Reflection question
Thomas needed “to see” in order to believe. This week try to pray and meditate on the lines of our Creed, “I believe in one God …maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible.
