The Church recognizes the Second Sunday of Easter as Divine Mercy Sunday. This day concludes what is known as the Easter Octave and calls us to rejoice in the merciful love of God as it is revealed in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Gospel reading this Sunday testifies to the peace that Jesus brings into our lives, overcoming fear and uncertainty:
“On the evening of that first day of the week, when the doors were locked, where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, ‘Peace be with you.’ When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. The disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, ‘Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.’ And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained’” (John 20:19-23).
After Jesus’ crucifixion, His disciples were hiding out and hoping they wouldn’t be next. When Jesus arrived, He simply offered a word of peace, showed the wounds of His death, and reminded them that they are to be sent out into the world. However, they will not be alone as the power of the Holy Spirit—that dwells in us today—will be their advocate.
We can find comfort in the support from others who have been in a similar situation and testify to the presence of God and good news in their lives today. In a very Christian way, we gain trust when we are privileged to see the wounds of those in our fellowship. With the witness of others, we can align with the spirit of Divine Mercy and proclaim, “Jesus, I trust in you!”
Reflection Questions
- How have you experienced Jesus through the process of other people showing you their wounds and testifying to the good news?
- What is it like for you to share honestly and openly in a Christian fellowship?
- What daily conversions—actions, prayers, devotions, or spiritual routines—strengthen your trust in God on a regular basis?
Sunday Mass Readings
First Reading: Acts 5:12-16
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24
Second Reading: Revelation 1:9-11a, 12-13, 17-19
Gospel: John 20:19-31
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