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Readings for Saturday in the Octave of Easter[1][2]Readings from the Jerusalem Bible at Universalis
Commentary:
Reading 1 Acts 4:13-21
We hear today the conclusion of the story of the healing of the lame beggar at the “Beautiful” Gate. The Sanhedrin has a problem, too many people saw the miracle done in Jesus’ name. They attempt damage control by threatening Peter and John. This does not work and we hear the final word of their kerygmatic discourse as they proclaim once more Christ Risen.
Responsorial Psalm Ps 118:1 and 14-15ab, 16-18, 19-21R. I will give thanks to you, for you have answered me.
We continue to hear from Psalm 118, the great litany of thanksgiving in today’s selection. It leads nicely into the Gospel with “I will give thanks to you, for you have answered me and have been my savior.”
Gospel Mk 16:9-15
This Gospel selection is called “The Longer Ending” of St. Mark’s Gospel. It captures pieces of the story we have from the Gospels of St. Luke and St. John. The emotion expressed is one of fear and determination rather than joy and confidence found in later writings. On this Saturday in the Octave of Easter we hear the story of the risen Lord encapsulated by Mark.
Reflection:
Today we are stuck with an amazing contrast. Look at Peter and John in front of the Sanhedrin in the reading from Acts. They stand their boldly, facing down the very leaders who crucified the Savior of the world. Threatened with the same sort of fate, they unflinchingly proclaim Christ crucified and risen.
Now look at those same ordinary disciples who become extraordinary as they cower in St. Mark’s Gospel. Mary Magdalene comes to them after visiting the tomb and tells them what she has seen and they don’t believe her. Then the two disciples who encountered Jesus on the road to Emmaus return and say they have seen the Risen Christ. The disciples do not believe them either. It is only when the Lord himself comes to them and stands before them that they receive the “Peace” of the Lord.
The transformation is immediate and radical. Suddenly these fearful men become the fearless professors of the truth we see in Acts. Could just the appearance of Jesus have caused this transformation? Yes, there is a lot of the story that takes place between these two depictions of the Apostles. We look forward to Pentecost and the gift of the Holy Spirit when the great work of evangelization begins in earnest. But Mark does tell us they were pushed into the world by this event.
What about us? We still revel in our Easter joy, the words of the Exultet, the Easter Proclamation still echoing in our minds. The Gospel reminds us that there is a consequence to our celebration that must manifest themselves in action. Just as the disciples were sent into the world, we too are sent. There mission is our mission. Through our words, prayers and actions we pray that our light will join with the light of the Easter Candle that illuminates every heart. We hear His words: “Go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature.”
Pax[1] After 05/07[2] The Image today is “Christ appears to the eleven” by James Tissot, 1886-96
Readings for Friday in the Octave of Easter[1][2]Readings from the Jerusalem Bible at Universalis
Commentary:
Reading 1 Acts 4:1-12
We continue to follow Peter and John as they proclaim Christ crucified and risen. As we hear today, their effective apology has now gained them an audience with Caiaphas and the rest of the Sanhedrin – the very same people who handed Jesus over to be crucified and Peter, having just performed a saving act in His name, reminds them with the famous cornerstone speech using imagery from their own hymnal Psalm 118:22 coincidently used as our psalm response below.
Responsorial Psalm Ps 118:1-2 and 4, 22-24, 25-27aR. The stone rejected by the builders has become the cornerstone.
This litany of thanksgiving features the cornerstone image that, in addition to the Acts selection above, was also used in the Gospel of St. Mark (Mark 12:10) and the first epistle of St. Peter (1 Peter 2:7).
Gospel Jn 21:1-14
The Gospel from St. John gives us the Lord’s third appearance to the disciples. Again he his not at first recognized. In typical Johannine fashion, the first to recognize the Lord was the disciple whom Jesus loved, presumed to be St. John himself.
Jesus tells them were to cast the net and, indeed, they net a great number of fish (153 probably symbolic of universal mission of the Church - the total species of fish known at the time or the sum of numbers from 1-17). Peter is so excited he jumps in and swims to shore, discovering Jesus with a fish already cooking and bread, a Eucharistic reference.
When they are joined by the other disciples they were so overawed that they could not even speak. Then the Lord broke the bread.
Reflection:
One week ago today we recalled the Passion of our Lord and felt the tragic pang of sorrow as he was laid in the tomb. It always seems odd to see the tabernacle bare and empty, the vigil light extinguished. Lots of folks can’t seem to understand or perhaps they are just so accustomed to reverencing the Eucharist they don’t think about what it is that ‘s missing.
Today, that missing component is back, back in the tabernacle, back with the disciples who themselves are back fishing were many of them started. Now the Lord lets them and us know that, while he has fulfilled the Father’s plan, the mission has not changed. The Lord has made them and us, as he promised, “Fishers of men”. He directs us and we cast a net that is full of fish.
Knowing we need strength for such a difficult task he feeds us with his own body in the Eucharist – he says “Come, have breakfast.” The scripture story has only one additional piece of symbolism for us after that invitation – the disciples, the ones he called and who had been walking with him for three long years, they were there and they too were afraid of the task that beaconed to them.
Today as we again pray in thanksgiving that “He is Risen!” we also ask God for the strength to carry on the work to which, like the disciples on the shore of Galilee, we are called. May his Holy Spirit guide us and His Body strengthen us.
Pax[1] After 05/07[2] The image presented today is “Christ with St. Peter and the disciples on the Sea of Galilee” by Lucas Gassel, 1500-1570
Readings for Thursday in the Octave of Easter[1][2]Readings from the Jerusalem Bible at Universalis
Commentary:
Reading 1 Acts 3:11-26
Continuing the story started yesterday with the cure of the lame beggar, we find a crowd gathering in the temple area and Peter launching into the second kerygmatic discourse or proclamations about the nature of Christ. Peter uses a new title for the Savior, “The Author of Life.”
Peter concludes this discourse with a call for conversion. He sites Moses prophecy using a paraphrase of Deut 18:15.
Responsorial Psalm Ps 8:2ab and 5, 6-7, 8-9R. O Lord, our God, how wonderful your name in all the earth!
Psalm 8 is another of the songs of thanksgiving. In this selection we hear the title “son of man” used. It is, in this instance referring to the people as opposed to Jesus. The song reflects on the creation account from Genesis and how God gave man dominion over the life he created.
Gospel Lk 24:35-48
This is the first appearance of the risen Christ to the disciples in the locked room. It is significant that Thomas was not with them. His role becomes important later. He shows the disciples his wounds and then to prove he is corporeal, he asks for food and eats in front of them.
Now satisfied that they believe, the Lord brings them to understand the prophetic significance of what had taken place. He concludes pointedly by saying; “You are witnesses to these things.”
Reflection:
He is risen! The scriptures shout the good news from Peter’s great discourse in the temple precincts to the Lord’s own appearance to his friends. Are we still not amazed? Even when we see a fisherman (three years ago Peter was throwing nets into the sea and praying for fish!) boldly proclaiming Christ’s death and resurrection to the leaders of his faith?
Easter is a time when we should do our best to throw out our historical understanding of the events unfolding in scripture. Like a movie we love and have seen many times before, we allow ourselves to be caught up in events that played themselves out thousands of years ago. So great was the event we relive it each year and remember it each day.
He is risen! Our reaction to his appearance in the locked room (although St. Luke does not mention it is locked) is the final proof that all that was predicted has come to pass. The “Author of Life” as St. Peter so aptly titles him, has returned not just to those ten, but to all of us. We see him there, bruised, beaten and pierced for us. He is real, not a ghost. He eats before his friends to prove it.
He is risen! For us that means two important things. First if all he said about his mission is true, and how can it not be since he was dead and is now alive, then what he promised, salvation, remission of our sins and eternal life opened to us, must also be true. Second, all that he asked of us through his disciples must also apply to our part of his New Covenant. We too are called to follow his example, his path.
He is risen! We rejoice at our good fortune and rededicate ourselves to our own call.
Pax[1] After 05/07[2] The image today – “Christ's appearance behind locked doors” Duccio di Buoninsegna, 1308-11
Readings for Wednesday in the Octave of Easter[1][2]Readings from the Jerusalem Bible at Universalis
Commentary:
Reading 1 Acts 3:1-10
This dramatic cure of the lame beggar begins a group of events that places the disciples in the footsteps of Jesus. In this first action, the beggar is cured in the name of Jesus and immediately led into the temple area. The symbolism here is Jesus heals and leads us to faith.
Responsorial Psalm Ps 105:1-2, 3-4, 6-7, 8-9R. Rejoice, O hearts that seek the Lord.
This song of praise links us to the first reading from Acts by emphasizing the saving power of the name of the Lord.
Gospel Lk 24:13-35
This story of the disciples of the road to Emmaus is only found in Luke’s Gospel. There is a mention in Mark (Mk 16;12) that is vague but probably refers to this event. The actual location of Emmaus is not known but it is estimated that it was between 7 and 18 miles from Jerusalem. The focus of the story is the unrecognized Jesus (remember yesterday, Mary Magdalene thought he was a gardener) interprets scripture and then his recognition in the breaking of the bread (the Eucharistic reference).
Reflection:
The scripture placed before us today as we continue to rejoice in the Easter feast (are the jelly beans gone yet?) is so full of meaning for us that it is difficult to compose an adequate post in the time and space allotted. Instead of my usual monologue I am going to put down a few topics on each of the three scripture selections and invite the readers to pick one or two for today and just pray for inspiration from them:
In the reading from Acts, the cure of the “Lame Beggar”
- The disciples Peter and John invoke the name of Jesus (“…in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazorean, rise and walk”). As modern disciples of Jesus what power and authority do we command in His name?
- Once they had cured him, they led him into the temple area. The Apostles lead, do we follow? In Psalm 105 – ths great song of praise
- David sings to the Lord thanking him for all he has done. Have we prayed that way lately or are we just asking for things from him?
- Like Peter and John who invoked the name of Jesus, David sings; “Give thanks to the Lord, invoke his name” Do we do so with purpose or only as an emphatic reference.
From Luke’s Gospel the Disciples on the road to Emmaus
- That road, shuffling along in the dust with Jesus, we all walk that way. When was the last time we looked for the Lord’s guidance as we encountered him in the breaking of the bread?
- The Lord interpreted “…to them what referred to him in all the Scriptures” He is there for us today in the Word – the Logos. Have we looked there for guidance? Have we taken to heart what we have heard?
- How lucky were those two disciples to have met the Lord on that road. We might ask; “How could they have not known him?” But then we must ask; “How many times have we, on our own journey been joined by the Lord and failed to recognize him?”
So much to contemplate today as we bask in the Easter Joy of this time. Pax
[1] After 05/07[2] The image today is “The Walk to Emmaus” by Lelio Orsi 1565-75
Readings for Tuesday in the Octave of Easter[1][2]Readings from the Jerusalem Bible at Universalis
Commentary:
Reading 1 Acts 2:36-41
The selection from Acts today continues the First Discourse by Peter concerning the Messiah. In this section he introduces Baptism in the name of Jesus. This is in accord with the instructions of all four Gospels found here for the first time. Peter’s arguments are compelling and we are told that three thousand accepted the call.
Responsorial Psalm Ps 33:4-5, 18-19, 20 and 22R. The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord.
Psalm 33 is a song of praise and thanksgiving. In this selection the emphasis is on faithfulness to God who has saving power.
Gospel Jn 20:11-18
Today we are given St. John’s account of the first meeting between Mary Magdalene and Jesus following the Lord’s crucifixion. In this account we get a distinct picture that the ascension had not been completed but the Lord is waiting to deliver his final instructions.
There is debate about when the Lord ascended to the Father. Clearly his last earthly appearance was fifty days following the resurrection. Most scholars believe Jesus ascended immediately following his meeting with Mary depicted here.
Reflection:
While we are still deep in the joy of our Easter of hope In Christ Jesus, we reflect on some of the particulars of reconciling our faith with the physical world. Recognizing first that we will not understand how God did what he did to the Lord and that the resurrection of the body, while we accept it as part of our creedal faith, is something we wonder about.
At some level of logic, if we are to believe in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist we must try to reconcile what we know of the physical body and what we accept on faith. It is a difficult and sometimes painful process (while there are epiphanies, flashes of insight along the way, it is a process of understanding).
The Gospel today has helped me. I have long believed that Christ’s risen and glorified body is the one present in the Eucharist. It is that body that appeared to the disciples in the locked room (more about that in a couple of days). In his newly risen state, he did not want Mary Magdalene to hold on to him (physically, spiritually?) because he had not yet ascended to the Father.
The significance this story and specifically the ancient words “Noli me tangere” (Don’t hold me) rings clear to us. We must not keep the Lord of the World in a box. We cannot fully understand what he must do and we may not define him in human terms but must direct our minds and emotions to allow him to be what our logic abhors, a mystery.
We contemplate the resurrection event again today as we hope in our own salvation. Salvation promised in that same resurrection and sealed in the waters of our Baptism. We shake free of the pain and suffering of the Lord’s Passion and accept now his newly risen appearance. We are amazed at what God has done for us.
Pax[1] After 05/07[2] The image today is another “Jesus appears to Mary Magdalene” by Lavinia Fontana, 1581
Readings for Monday in the Octave of Easter[1][2]Readings from the Jerusalem Bible at Universalis
Commentary:
Reading 1 Acts 2:14, 22-33
This is the first of the six professions (“kerygma” or proclamations) in Acts about the resurrection. In this proclamation, Peter, speaking to the Jews in Jerusalem (many of whom would have been in the crowd that saw Jesus crucified) reminds them that David had been made the promise of an eternal dynasty that had been fulfilled in the resurrected Messiah, Jesus.
Responsorial Psalm Ps 16:1-2a and 5, 7-8, 9-10, 11R. Keep me safe, O God; you are my hope.
Psalm 16 is the song quoted in the Acts above. A song of thanksgiving that has become prophetic, it speaks clearly of the resurrection accomplished now in Christ. (“Because you will not abandon my soul to the nether world, nor will you suffer your faithful one to undergo corruption”.
Gospel Mt 28:8-15
From Matthew’s Gospel we are told of Mary Magdalene’s encounter with the risen Christ as she returned from the empty tomb. In this account, Mary is described as actually touching him. This differs from the description in the Gospel of St. John where Jesus asks Mary not to hold on to him because he has not yet ascended to the Father.
This scripture also tells us something we would expect of those who did not want to believe, that is the rumor that it was the disciples of Jesus who took the body rather than letting the truth get out.
Reflection:
For the modern world and many in it, Easter of 2007 has come and gone. For the Church and the faithful who recognize this as the most important event of all time, our celebration continues. For us the echoes of the Exultet, the Easter Proclamation still rings in our ears. Recall the third strophe;
Rejoice O Mother Church, exalt in glory. The risen Savior shines upon you. Let this place resound with joy, echoing the mighty song of all God’s people.
The tears and remorse of Good Friday have left and indeed that joy filled realization that the Savior has conquered death and fulfilled his promise has burst upon us. Has it really sunk in? Or, perhaps a better question might be, since we have relived this event each year for as long as we have been alive, has its meaning changed for us? Has it gotten closer to brining us the joy of Mary Magdalene who first saw that empty tomb and understood?
When we were children, we had been told the story from our earliest years of how Jesus was seized by evil men and nailed to a cross. We were hurriedly told, probably by our parents, that just three days later Jesus rose from the dead. We did not understand what it truly meant back then. Perhaps what Easter truly meant was the Easter Basket with chocolate bunnies and perhaps new clothes to wear to church.
As we grew older the meaning of the Easter story changed for us. Probably in our early teen years it became an emotional event. The Stations of the Cross during Lent were very moving and the mood of Good Friday was embraced. Easter was almost anticlimactic.
In our adult years the promise of Easter becomes more important. The sacrifice of the Lord becomes more real to us as we understand more completely the pain the Lord endured for us so that promise might be fulfilled. It is, in many ways like getting to know one’s spouse or a close friend; the process is on-going and never reaches its end because our own experiences continually sharpen our understanding.
This year we pray our appreciation and joy over the saving work that is Easter brings us closer to the true joy that is due to God’s children who have seen once more the Lord of Life conquer death and rise in glory. May our Alleluia reverberate throughout our lives in the season now upon us.
Pax [1] After 05/07[2] The image today is “Christ and Mary Magdalene (Noli me tangere)” by Federico Fiori Barocci, 1590
The Resurrection of the Lord
The Mass of Easter Day
Readings for Easter Sunday[1][2]Readings from the Jerusalem Bible at Universalis
Commentary:
Reading 1 Acts 10:34a, 37-43
This is part of Peter’s speech to Cornelius and his family (Gentiles). Peter (according to St. Luke) assumes the people know what has happened – namely that Jesus who was thought to be the Messiah, had proven that fact in the resurrection. Now he reminds them, before the creed was written that Christ will come to judge the living and the dead.
Responsorial Psalm Ps 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23R. This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.
Or Alleluia.
Appropriately, Psalm 118 is a song of thanksgiving emphasizing the fidelity of God. The final strophe gives a reminder that God’s only Son was rejected and, in the resurrection, became the cornerstone of all creation.
Reading II Col 3:1-4
Paul gives assurance to the Colossians that they too have a home with Christ who now is seated at the right hand of the Father. In saying this, he points their aspirations to the things of heaven.
Or I Cor 5:6b-8
Paul calls the Corinthians to conversion with a metaphor. He uses the duel meaning or implication of leaven bread and the feast of the Passover to symbolize the new covenant. The traditional Passover meal or Seder is lamb and unleavened bread. Christ, the Lamb of God in the unleavened bread of the Eucharist is their meal.
Gospel Jn 20:1-9
In St. John’s account of the discovery of the “Empty Tomb” we hear how the disciple whom Jesus loved understood what had come to pass before Peter. Found also in Luke, this story furnishes the testimony that confirms Christ’s resurrection.
Reflection:
He is Risen!
The forty days of preparation have ended and we celebrate the greatest feast of the Church. Jesus Christ The Gospel of St. John tells the story of the foot race between St. Peter and another (much younger) disciple, probably St. John himself. They rush to the grave because Mary Magdala has told them something astonishing. She has been to the Tomb and it was empty!
They had to see for themselves. It had been three days and they could not have gone earlier because they were forbidden to make that journey on the Sabbath. What did they think as they ran? Were they fighting with their faith? Did they believe that what Jesus had been telling them all along had come to pass or could have been the Romans or even the Temple guards that took the body, still not prepared for proper burial to some other place, further humiliating the Lord after his death.
What do we believe and what does that mean for us? If we believe that Christ has risen as he told us repeatedly that he would, then we understand him the be the Messiah, the Christ, the Son of God who as Paul and Luke both tell us, now sits at the right had of the Father in the seat of Justice. If that is our belief, first we celebrate that event joyfully today. Not just because our long fast has ended, but once more the Church proclaims throughout the world that salvation is there for the asking. The great “Alleluia” has sounded and we are called to echo that joyous sound that the world will know and come to believe, “For they did not yet understand the scripture that he had to rise from the dead.”
Pax[1] After 05/07[2] The image today is “Peter and John run to the grave” by James Tissot, 1886-96
Easter Sunday
The Resurrection of the Lord
At the Easter Vigil in the Holy Night of Easter
Readings for the Easter Vigil[1][2]Readings from the Jerusalem Bible at Universalis
Commentary:
Reading 1 Gn 1:1—2:2 or 1:1, 26-31a
Scripture begins with the first creation account from Genesis. God creates the universe, the earth, and all living things. His final creation is the Sabbath, a day of rest and worship.
Responsorial Psalm Ps 104:1-2, 5-6, 10, 12, 13-14, 24, 35R. Lord, send out your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth.
Psalm 104 is a song of thanksgiving supporting the creation event just related. A constant theme through the psalms is thanks for the gift of creation.
Or Ps 33:4-5, 6-7, 12-13, 20 and 22R. The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord.
The alternate psalm is also a song of thanks giving for God’s creative majesty. In this song the Logos is also mentioned tying the creative event to Jesus – the Word of God – the Logos.
Reading II Gn 22:1-18 or 22:1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18
In the second reading we find Abraham put to the test. He is to offer his son Isaac as a holocaust – an offering completely burnt on the altar. Abraham, though reluctant, is faithful to God and follows his instructions. At the last moment, when God is sure that Abraham has greater love for God than even his beloved son Isaac, he stops Abraham and “blesses him abundantly”, making him the father of nations.
Responsorial Psalm 16:5, 8, 9-10, 11R. You are my inheritance, O Lord.
Following Abraham’s demonstration of love, Psalm 16 is another song of thanksgiving, this time for presence of the Lord and His saving power.
Reading III Ex 14:15—15:1
This selection of Exodus is the crossing of the Red (Reed) Sea and the destruction of the Egyptian army following them. While this was the beginning of the Exodus story, it is the most spectacular intervention by God of the journey and, coupled with the striking of the firstborn of Egypt, the most forceful act, freeing the Hebrews from further retribution and harassment.
Responsorial Psalm Ex 15:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 17-18
R. Let us sing to the Lord; he has covered himself in glory.
This hymn is another account of the saving event that ended the threat of the Egyptians. This canticle was frequently used in early Christian liturgy to celebrate God’s saving power.
Reading IV Is 54:5-14
Isaiah paints Jerusalem as the wife in relationship with God. This passage is understood by the Christian faithful to refer to the New Jerusalem – Zion the Church. In this oracle the Prophet speaks of the everlasting covenant that would be the Messiah.
Responsorial Psalm Ps 30:2, 4, 5-6, 11-12, 13
R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.
Still another psalm of thanksgiving recalls the saving power of God. The image of the resurrection is clearly evident I the first strophe, “O Lord, you brought me up from the netherworld; you preserved me from among those going down into the pit.”
Reading V Is 55:1-11
In the second reading from Isaiah we hear how God’s salvation is given to all peoples. We recall as the Prophet reminds us that salvation flows from his promise to extend David’s line, that the Messiah comes from that linage in fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy.
Responsorial Psalm Is 12:2-3, 4, 5-6
R. You will draw water joyfully from the springs of salvation.
This song of praise and thanksgiving takes the tone of a profession of faith; “God indeed is my savior; I am confident and unafraid. My strength and my courage is the Lord, and he has been my savior.”
Reading VI Bar 3:9-15, 32
Baruch, the secretary of Jeremiah, composes this poem in praise of the Law of Moses. The poem rejoices in the saving power of God for those who are faithful using Wisdom like references to speak of divine intervention.
Responsorial Psalm Ps 19:8, 9, 10, 11
R. Lord, you have the words of everlasting life.
Supporting Baruch’s praise of the Law, Psalm 19 echoes praise for the Law that Jesus came to fulfill.
Reading VII Ez 36:16-17a, 18-28
Contained within this selection from Ezekiel is one of the earliest and most complete descriptions of the theology of Baptism (Ez 36; 24-28). We see the Lord’s great love for the people manifest in first purifying them (“I will sprinkle clean water upon you…”) and then giving them a conversion of heart (“I will give you a new heart and place a new spirit within you…”).
Responsorial Psalm (When baptism is celebrated.)
R. Like a deer that longs for running streams, my soul longs for you, my God.
The water theme in this song of thanksgiving reminds us of the life-giving bath that is Baptism. Those receiving the sacrament will be moved by the obvious invitation to join with God fully in this holy place.
When baptism is not celebrated. Is 12:2-3, 4bcd, 5-6R. You will draw water joyfully from the springs of salvation.
If Baptism is not celebrated at the vigil we may hear this hymn from the Prophet Isaiah that reminds us, through his profession that we have all be baptized in Jesus life and eath.
Or Ps 51:12-13, 14-15, 18-19R. Create a clean heart in me, O God.
This personal lament is the alternate to Isaiah’s hymn. We are also reminded of Baptism and the purifying effect of that bath.
Epistle Rom 6:3-11
This reading from Romans reminds us that we have been joined to Christ in Baptism and in doing so we are also joined to his death. Without inevitable death of the body there is no resurrection and we are reminded by Paul that, since Christ came so we could be absolved from sin, the great promise is that we will rise with him, free from all sin.
Responsorial Psalm Ps 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23
R. Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
The final psalm is another song of thanksgiving. It sets the stage for the great event that demonstrates God’s love and power as the Lord, His Son, the “stone the builders rejected” conquers death and joins Him in new life.
Gospel Lk 24:1-12
This is actually the first of five parts of the resurrection story taking place nearly simultaneously in St. Luke’s Gospel. The three Maries arrive at the tomb to find it empty and encounter two angels. The announcement of the resurrection comes in the form of a question; “Why do you seek the living one among the dead? He is not here, but he has been raised.” The great promise has been fulfilled.
Reflection:
Since tonight, at the beginning of our Easter Vigil the Proclamation of Easter will be made, I have used it below for this most important reflection.
Rejoice, heavenly powers! Sing, choirs of angels!
Exult, all creation around God's throne!
Jesus Christ, our King, is risen!
Sound the trumpet of salvation!
Rejoice, O earth, in shining splendor,
radiant in the brightness of your King!
Christ has conquered! Glory fills you!
Darkness vanishes for ever!
Rejoice, O Mother Church! Exult in glory!
The risen Savior shines upon you!
Let this place resound with joy,
echoing the mighty song of all God's people!
My dearest friends,
standing with me in this holy light,
join me in asking God for mercy,
that he may give his unworthy minister
grace to sing his Easter praises.
(followed by the usual exchange asking that we lift up our hearts)
It is truly right
that with full hearts and minds and voices
we should praise the unseen God, the all-powerful Father,
and his only Son, our Lord Jesus Christ.
For Christ has ransomed us with his blood,
and paid for us the price of Adam's sin to our eternal Father!
This is our passover feast,
when Christ, the true Lamb, is slain,
whose blood consecrates the homes of all believers.
This is the night
when first you saved our fathers:
you freed the people of Israel from their slavery
and led them dry-shod through the sea.
This is the night
when the pillar of fire destroyed the darkness of sin!
This is night
when Christians everywhere,
washed clean of sin and freed from all defilement,
are restored to grace and grow together in holiness.
This is the night
when Jesus Christ broke the chains of death
and rose triumphant from the grave.
What good would life have been to us,
had Christ not come as our Redeemer?
Father, how wonderful your care for us!
How boundless your merciful love!
To ransom a slave you gave away your Son.
O happy fault,
O necessary sin of Adam,
which gained for us so great a Redeemer!
Most blessed of all nights,
chosen by God to see Christ rising from the dead!
Of this night scripture says:
"The night will be as clear as day:
it will become my light, my joy."
The power of this holy night dispels all evil,
washes guilt away, restores lost innocence,
brings mourners joy;
it casts out hatred, brings us peace,
and humbles earthly pride.
Night truly blessed when heaven is wedded to earth
and man is reconciled with God!
Therefore, heavenly Father,
in the joy of this night,
receive our evening sacrifice of praise,
your Church's solemn offering.
Accept this Easter candle,
a flame divided but undimmed,
a pillar of fire that glows to the honor of God.
Let it mingle with the lights of heaven
and continue bravely burning
to dispel the darkness of this night!
May the Morning Star which never sets
find this flame still burning:
Christ, that Morning Star,
who came back from the dead,
and shed his peaceful light on all mankind,
your Son, who lives and reigns for ever and ever.
Amen.
[1] After 05/07[2] The first image is “Creation of Adam” by Michelangelo Buonarroti, 1510, followed by “The Sacrifice of Abraham” by Andrea Del Sarto, 1527-28, Next is “Pharaoh's army engulfed by the Red Sea” by Fredrick Arthur Bridgman, 1900, and “The Three Maries at the tomb” by Baciccio, II, 1685
Readings for Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion[1][2]Readings from the Jerusalem Bible at Universalis
Commentary:
Reading 1 Is 52:13—53:12
The last of the four “Servant of the Lord” oracles is used on Good Friday. A prediction of the passion is scene here beginning with the scourged servant and flowing into the salvific image (“Yet it was our infirmities that he bore”). We are reminded that what the servant bore, he took upon himself willingly (“Though he was harshly treated, he submitted”).
The later paragraphs describe how the servant becomes the “sin offering”, a sacrifice in the Jewish tradition in atonement for sins. In this case we are told, “…he shall take away the sins of many, and win pardon for their offenses.”
Responsorial Psalm Ps 31:2, 6, 12-13, 15-16, 17, 25R. Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.
The psalm response is taken from the Gospel of Luke (Lk 23;46) and the psalm selection is a lament of the people. It echoes the willingness with which the servant submits in Isaiah’s narrative. We also hear of the Lord’s mercy and strength.
Reading II Heb 4:14-16; 5:7-9
In the Book of Hebrews we hear St. Paul comparing Christ to the Jewish High Priest who is esteemed and pampered because of his rank. Jesus, on the other hand was tested and found to be sinless.
In the second paragraph we are told that while Jesus was afraid of the passion, he submitted to the will of the Father. In doing so he became the source of our eternal salvation.
Gospel Jn 18:1—19:42
Many of the specific details of the Passion accounts found in Matthew, Mark and Luke are omitted in St. Johns account (the agony in the garden and the kiss of Judas, nor does he identify the place as Gethsemane or the Mount of Olives.[3]) Also unlike the synoptic Gospels, St. John suggests Roman participation in the arrest of Jesus.
In St. John’s account we are also told that Jesus went through several interrogations (first by Annas and then by Caiaphas) before being taken to Pilate. The philosophical debate between Jesus and Pilate in John’s Gospel is rich with logic and it is understandable why Pilate wanted to release him. In the end (without sending him to Herod) Christ is condemned.
The role of Mary in John’s narrative is significant in that her role represents the Church, the mother of Christians now being given to the care of the Disciple whom Jesus loved. This hand off of the Church was the Lord’s last dying act. Finally we are given the final symbols of the perfect sacrifice; Jesus’ legs are not broken (because according to Jewish Law, the legs of a sacrificial animal are not to be broken) and water (representing baptism) and blood (representing Eucharist) flow from his side.
Reflection:
Our reflection today places us deep within the Passion itself. All that has been foretold by the Prophets has come to pass. The Lord, the Son of God, has given us his great gift and we are filled with the bitter sweet understanding of what this means. We know that what he did was what must have happened and we know that it is for us that this light was extinguished. Yet we feel the loss of the man, Jesus. We feel the pain of his human mother, Mary.
We conclude our reflection this day with the “Reproaches” that will be sung today all over the world:
For your sake I scourged your captors and their firstborn sons,
but you brought your scourges down on me.
My people what have I done to you?
How have I offended you? Answer me!
I led you from slavery to freedom
and drowned your captors in the sea,
but you handed me over to your high priests.
My people what have I done to you?
How have I offended you? Answer me!
I opened the sea before you,
but you opened my side with a spear.
My people what have I done to you?
How have I offended you? Answer me!
I led you on your way in a pillar of cloud,
but you led me to Pilate’s court!
My people what have I done to you?
How have I offended you? Answer me!
I bore you up with manna in the desert,
but you struck me down and scourged me.
My people what have I done to you?
How have I offended you? Answer me!
I gave you saving water from the rock,
but you gave me gall and vinegar to drink.
My people what have I done to you?
How have I offended you? Answer me!
For you I struck down the kings of Canaan,
but you struck my head with a reed.
My people what have I done to you?
How have I offended you? Answer me!
I gave you a royal scepter,
but you gave me a crown of thorns
My people what have I done to you?
How have I offended you? Answer me!
I raised you to the heights of majesty,
but you have raised me high on a cross.
My people what have I done to you?
How have I offended you? Answer me!
Pax [1] After 05/07[2] A difficult choice today – the image is “Christ on the Cross” by Peter Paul Rubens 1627
[3] Taken from the footnotes to the NAB at usccb.org
Mass of the Lord’s Supper
Readings for the Mass of the Lord’s Supper[1][2]Readings from the Jerusalem Bible at Universalis
Commentary:
Reading 1 Ex 12:1-8, 11-14
This reading established the Feast of Passover for Jewish people. It is the feast the Lord was celebrating in the upper room. We are told of the tenth and final plague to strike Egypt as God struck down the first born and caused the Pharaoh to release the people from bondage. The image of the “Lamb” is reminiscent of the “Lamb of God”, who is also without blemish, whose blood consecrates those who believe in him.
Responsorial Psalm Ps 116:12-13, 15-16bc, 17-18R. Our blessing-cup is a communion with the Blood of Christ.
This psalm of thanksgiving gives us the image of the “Cup of Blessing” used in the Passover celebration. It is this cup that the Lord first blessed and used as our communion cup.
Reading II 1 Cor 11:23-26
St. Paul gives us the earliest written account of the institution of the Lord’s Supper. This account is used by many protestant denominations to define their understanding of this event as symbolic rather than efficacious, that is they believe the Lord’s actions did not transubstantiate the bread and wine, but that the action was simply a “remembrance”. The Church looks the whole body of scripture, especially St. John’s Gospel and understands the Sacrament as the gift of Christ’s Body and Blood.
Gospel Jn 13:1-15
We find in St. John’s Gospel the Lord’s great act of humility as he washes the feet of his disciples, something that would not even have been done by a slave. In another sense it also caries with it the image of Baptism as well as the humiliating death the Lord was about to suffer.
Reflection:
There is an interesting paradox found in the event we celebrate today. The Mass in which these readings are foundational is the Mass of the Lord’s Supper, yet the Gospel focuses our attention on an act of humble service by the Savior of the World. As a community we come together for this first installment of the great Easter celebration.
As in the usual Mass, we will participate in the Liturgy of the Eucharist. But something special happens. It is traditional for twelve members of the community to come forward and the Priest, who stands in the place of Christ in sacramental celebrations, will follow Christ’s example literally by washing the feet of those selected.
It is a humbling position to be placed in, as one of those whose feet are to be washed. For many, it is too much to bear. Why would they feel such embarrassment, such unworthiness in the face of an act of love such as the Lord feels for all of us? These volunteers would almost certainly do as the Lord asked in the Gospel, “If I, therefore, the master and teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash one another’s feet.” Could it be the reason we, whose feet are to be washed, feel embarrassed is that we have never assumed that humble role for another and are therefore ill at ease? Is it because the Priest, someone we know and respect, has demonstrated that he believes the word of the one who called him?
What the Church reminds us by placing the re-enactment of Christ washing the feet of the disciples centrally in the Feast of the Lord’s Supper is that the one who laid down his life for us also laid down his glory for us. He did not just give up his life; he gave up his dignity, becoming the lowest of servants. The Son of God washes our feet daily; can we do less of one another?
Pax
[1] After 05/07[2] The image shown is “Jesus washing the feet of the disciples” by Julius Schnorr von Carolsfeld, 1851-60
Readings for Wednesday of Holy Week[1][2]Readings from the Jerusalem Bible at Universalis
Commentary:
Reading 1 Is 50:4-9a
This is the third of the four “Servant of the Lord” oracles from Isaiah. These four comprise the “Suffering Servant” that is the prophetic vision of the Messiah that describes the humble ministry of Christ. We head this same reading on Passion Sunday just four days ago. It sets the tone for what begins tomorrow evening with the Feast of the Lord’s Supper.
Responsorial Psalm Ps 69:8-10, 21-22, 31 and 33-34R. Lord, in your great love, answer me.
This selection is an individual lament, again drawing heavily on the image of the faithful servant who suffers but remains dedicated to God’s law and works.
Gospel Mt 26:14-25
We break away from St. John’s account and today hear Judas striking the bargain with members of the Sanhedrin. The thirty pieces of silver is reminiscent of the price paid for the shepherd of the flock to be slaughtered in Zechariah (Zechariah 11:12).
We then hear Matthew’s account of the story we heard yesterday. Jesus again tells the disciples that one of them will betray him. This time Judas, who has already having struck a deal to turn him over to his enemies, answers, “Surely it is not I, Rabbi?”
Reflection:
Avarice has overcome Judas and he strikes a deal with the Sanhedrin. How difficult it must have been for him to go to recline at table with Jesus, knowing what he was about to do. He is like a child who has done something wrong. He is too quick to jump when the subject of his next action is brought up by Jesus.
We must wonder if this is for our benefit. Judas was so obvious. The Lord told all of his closest friends; “Amen, I say to you, one of you will betray me.” The Gospel says the started arguing, saying one after the other, “Surely it is not I, Lord?” Note the question mark. Were they all thinking they could betray the Son of God? Was the Lord’s hold on them so tenuous that at any moment they worried they would fall away? Or was it perhaps that they misunderstood? There are many ways, as we all know, to betray the Savior of the World.
Perhaps we should focus on Judas again. His turn came and like the others he said, “Surely it is not I, Lord?” to which the Lord responded. “You have said so.”
In the next moment the mystery was solved as we are told Judas left the celebration. He did not sneak out, he left. In St. John’s Gospel yesterday the Apostle said they assumed he was going out to get more food or on some errand of charity. Did all of the disciples think so? Did none of them suspect the depth to which one of their own had sunk? Why didn’t someone stop him?
The question is actually amusing. In reflecting on that moment in the upper room, we get caught up in events that took place two thousand years ago and were prophesied long before that. Judas had to betray the Lord – he stood in the place of the advisors to Pharaoh who sent his army to destroy the Hebrews as they fled through the Red Sea. He cheered the golden calf while Moses was receiving the Law. He plotted against Jeremiah and against Isaiah. His act was the most predictable part of the whole Jesus story.
For us, even as some cord deep within us hopes that Jesus will somehow escape the plot, we pray more deeply that we have so conformed ourselves to the Lord that we could not be tempted to that violation of the love of the Lord that Judas now violates. We pray the, through our faithful service and love of on another, we will stand with the “disciple whom Jesus loved” at the foot of his cross. We take a breath as tomorrow we plunge into the Garden.
Pax[1] After 05/07[2] The image for today is “The Last Supper” by Philippe de Champaigne, ~1644
Readings for Tuesday of Holy Week[1][2]Readings from the Jerusalem Bible at Universalis
Commentary:
Reading 1 Is 49:1-6
This is the second of the four “Servant of the Lord” oracles from Isaiah. The “servant” is prepared for the work to be done and sent, not only to bring Israel back to the Lord but the entire world.
Responsorial Psalm Ps 71:1-2, 3-4a, 5ab-6ab, 15 and 17R. I will sing of your salvation.
Psalm 71 is an individual lament. In this section we hear a profession of faith in the saving power of God. In the third strophe we also find a link to the “Servant of the Lord” in Isaiah. In both cases the servant is known by God and prepared for his service from the womb.
Gospel Jn 13:21-33, 36-38
We pick up the story of the final hours of Jesus’ time with the disciples following the washing of their feet. First we hear of Judas’ departure from the table to betray the Lord. Then we are told of Jesus’ discourse with Peter and his prediction of Peter’s denial.
Reflection:
This is where the wheels start to fall off. Jesus has just celebrated the Passover meal with his disciples and we witness events unfold. First Judas, following his cue from Christ, leaves the table to go and betray him. John’s Gospel has he disciples themselves still baffled because he had just said, “It is the one to whom I hand the morsel after I have dipped it“and then he handed the morsel to Judas!
We hear the emotion painted in the Lord’s words as he addresses the disciples once Judas is gone, “My children, I will be with you only a little while longer…” He refers to his closest friends as “My children”, the time is getting short and once more Peter makes a run at holiness. Remember he had just told the Lord earlier in the evening when the master was washing their feet, “Master, then not only my feet, but my hands and head as well." Now he tell the Lord he will follow him into whatever situation he is going. Again Jesus must feel that pang of sorrow as he must tell the disciple to whom he has entrusted the “Keys to the Kingdom” that he too will betray the Lord.
Judas, the least, the one painted villain and Peter, the first, the leader of the Apostles, both fail the Lord at this critical time. Perhaps we were given these examples so that we, who follow the Lord’s path all these years later, will take comfort when we see our own betrayal of Jesus through sin. While our failures do not have the same consequences for Jesus as man, they do have the same diminishing impact on Jesus our Savior and the Son of God.
Look at the reaction of these two disciples who betray the Lord;
Judas, the Lord’s betrayer of the highest order was ripped open by guilt. Depending upon which story of his end we listen to (there are two in scripture Matthew 27; 3-6 or Peter’s version from Acts 1:18-19.
In the Gospel of Matthew, after Peter vociferously denies Jesus “At that he began to curse and to swear, "I do not know the man." And immediately a cock crowed. He went out and began to weep bitterly.” (Matthew 26;75) That reaction is born out in the Gospel of Mark as well.
The point here clear, we who betray the Lord, who deny him either by words or actions, suffer the same guilt. That guilt comes between us and the Lord – we dare not come to the Lord’s Table with that blood on our hands.
Today we pray once more to God, through his Son, that through the sacrifice the Lord has made on our behalf, we might be washed clean, made whole as Peter was and come once more to him in the most blessed sacrament of the altar, the wellspring of our salvation.
Pax[1] After 05/07[2] The dark image today is “Judas retires from the supper” by James Tissot, 1886-96
Readings for Monday of Holy Week[1][2]Readings from the Jerusalem Bible at Universalis
Commentary:
Reading 1 Is 42:1-7
This is the first of the four “Servant of the Lord” oracles from Isaiah. Speaking as the mouth of God, the prophet speaks of a renewal of Israel in his time. We see the deeper meaning as his words describe the coming of the Christ who brings justice on the earth.
Responsorial Psalm Ps 27:1, 2, 3, 13-14R. The Lord is my light and my salvation.
This section of the psalm is a profession of faith in the salvation that comes only from the Lord God. This selection is frequently used in Christian Funerals because of the hope embodied in it.
Gospel Jn 12:1-11
In this scene from St. John’s Gospel we are painted a picture of Judas not found in other accounts. John shows him as a greedy and dishonest person. We suspect this understanding of Judas came after his ultimate act of betrayal. At the time it would have seemed like a reasonable question.
Jesus again tells the disciples that the time for his trial is at hand as he tells them; “You will always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me.” The sense of finality is growing as we are also told of the plot to kill Lazarus as well as Jesus in an attempt to stamp out the Lord’s popularity among the people.
Reflection:
We have started our final week of this Lenten Season with the celebration of Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Since we know what follows, we also know that this is the time in Jesus ministry when he must have felt he had almost accomplished what he had been sent for. While in the Heart of the Son of God, Jesus knows his passion looms on the horizon, in the hopes of the true man Jesus, he is praying that perhaps the cup will pass.
In the Gospel we find him sitting down with his close friends, Lazarus, Mary and Martha (again Martha is serving while Mary dotes over Jesus). St. John observes some sinister things about Judas that take us by surprise. Yes we know Judas will betray Christ to the Sanhedrin. But in other accounts, this is done for reasons other than greed. No hint is given in Matthew, Mark or Luke that Judas was a thief, driven by greed. Surely Jesus, who knows the hearts of people clearly, would not have taken Judas as one of his closest friends knowing that he could not follow him, would he?
We suspect that St. John, writing his account years after the events, sees Judas as totally flawed. The person that committed the ultimate betrayal could never have been a true friend, could never have been counted with the rest of the twelve. Still he was called, he did walk with the Lord, he did sit by his side as he taught. No man could have made that journey and remained totally evil.
We hear the scorn in St. John’s Gospel today and feel pity for Judas. Because he was weak and could not see what was before him, he fell. He fell like no person since the evil one himself was thrown out of heaven fell. His soul still writhes in torment and we feel pity for the man who had to be. The man that caused the Lord of Life to be lifted on the cross plays his role and Jesus walks the path knowing the end is coming soon.
Pax[1] After 05/07[2] The image for today is “St Lazarus between Martha and Mary” by and unknown Spanish Master 1400 - 1450
Reading 1 Lk 19:28-40
Jesus is now coming back to Jerusalem and it is clear that the disciples to which St. Luke is referring are more than just the twelve (“…the whole multitude of his disciples began to praise God aloud with joy”). Included in this number were those who had seen the signs he had performed and had expectations of another kind of Messiah.
The acclamation the disciples gave Jesus in this version of the story is the same one that the angels gave at his birth; “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord. Peace in heaven and glory in the highest.” It is also the reason the Pharisees asked Jesus to stop them. They did not want the Romans to interpret this acclamation as rebellion against the Emperor.
At the Mass Is 50:4-7
This is the third of four “Servant of the Lord” oracles in Isaiah. God chastises the people for not following the servant who willingly accepts God’s service and even the contempt of the people. The image of humble service is frequently associated with the suffering servant prophetic of Christ.
Responsorial Psalm Ps 22:8-9, 17-18, 19-20, 23-24R. My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?
The personal lament in Psalm 22 echoes the abuse and ridicule heaped on God’s servants and the faithful. This selection goes further, prophetically describing the Passion of the Lord (“…They have pierced my hands and my feet” and “They divide my garments among them, and for my vesture they cast lots.”
Reading II Phil 2:6-11
This passage from Philippians is known as the Kenotic Hymn – The song of emptying. As part of St. Paul’s instructive letters, this is clearly to be used as a liturgical prayer or song. Used at the celebration of Palm Sunday, it provides a counter point to the elevated status of Jesus entry. The attitude of Christ is one of humility.
Gospel Lk 22:14—23:56 or 23:1-49
The passion according to St. Luke recounts the “Last Supper”, the “Prayer in the Garden”, Jesus arrest, trial, conviction, and execution. Detailed commentary will not be given; however, those who wish to spend the time are encouraged to review the footnotes from the USCCB site. The Passion of the Lord will be remembered again on Good Friday. It is fitting that during this Holy Week we should meditate upon the Lord’s great sacrifice.
Reflection:
There is a general rule that the Homily on Palm Sunday be focused on the first Gospel reading from Luke that tells the story of Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Like the light bulb that flashes brilliantly just before it is extinguished, the Lord enters the holy city on the eve of the great feast of Passover to the cheers; “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord. Peace in heaven and glory in the highest.”
And why, we ask, should they not? Jesus would be, by this time, well known to them. He had been seen performing “signs” and rumor must have reached them of even greater works attributed to him; feeding the multitudes, casting out demons of every sort. Here at last was one who preached peace and liberation. Here was the Messiah who would end there servitude and cast out the Romans.
The parts they probably had not heard were his attitude toward his fellow creatures. They must not have been familiar with the person of Jesus, only his reputation. Is it any wonder then, when their religious leaders brought charges of blasphemy against him and they heard the story of how he had submitted to them humbly to them reached the people, they would turn against him? Is it surprising that, when their hopes were dashed after cheering his entry to the city, that they would condemn him and free Barabbas?
Don’t we do the same thing when God does not perform according to our desires? Don’t we, even fleetingly, cry to God saying, “It’s not fair, why do you abandon me?” Can we really blame the crowd in Jerusalem for their ignorance? This is our lesson, the one played out in the Blood of the Lamb. Rather than weeping for our God who willingly went to his death that we might win life with him, we rejoice that one so great could love us so much.
Pax[1] After 05/01[2] The image selected for today is “Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem” by Gustave Doré, 1865
[3] Universalis does not include the first Gospel Reading from St. Luke which is read at the procession with Palms.
