Acts 5:12-16, Revelation 1:9-11, 12-13, 17-19, Psalm 118:2-4, 13-15,
22-24, John 20:19-31
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/041110.shtml
AM I THOMAS' TWIN?
"Do not persist in your unbelief, but believe!" —John 20:27
If we are honest with ourselves, we may admit that we're like doubting
Thomas. Our faith in the resurrection may not be strong. For instance, in
our funeral homes and funeral Masses do we proclaim the resurrection? Are
we so taken up with Jesus' resurrection that we center our lives on
celebrating it each Sunday? Do we see our bodies and sexuality differently
because we know these bodies will rise to live eternally? Do we devote
much of our finances and energies to proclaiming the resurrection? Our
lives speak louder than our words. We may believe in the resurrection
theoretically, but also have a lack of faith (see Mk 9:24) to live it out
in practical ways.
We need the Holy Spirit to confirm us, to renew the sacrament of
Confirmation in our lives. Jesus is breathing on us and saying: "Receive
the Holy Spirit" (Jn 20:22). He's giving us the grace to respond: "My Lord
and my God!" (Jn 20:28) By the power of the Spirit, this Easter can be a
new act of faith rather than a continuation of doubt.
Jesus offered Thomas the opportunity to receive mercy, to atone for his
fearfulness, his absence, his doubt. Jesus invites us who also fear,
absent ourselves, and doubt, to come out of the tomb of doubt into the
risen light of faith. Accept Jesus as Lord of your life and receive the
Holy Spirit.
Prayer: Jesus, today may I accept the grace to believe so strongly in Your
resurrection that I will live and even die for You.
Promise: "Once I was dead but now I live — forever and ever. I hold the
keys of death." —Rv 1:18
Praise: Praise You, Jesus, Mercy Incarnate! You are "rich in mercy" (Eph
2:4), "a merciful and gracious God" (Ex 34:6). All glory and praise be to
You. Alleluia!
(See our website www.presentationministries.com for details of our
upcoming retreats.)
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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant my
permission to publish "One Bread, One Body" covering the period from April
1, 2010 through May 31, 2010
†Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of
Cincinnati, October 9, 2009
The rescript is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be
free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have
granted ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or
statements expressed.
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