Pundits and experts are already thinking post-pandemic (the day after). Many are voicing the need to have a frank and honest discussion about the lessons learned. How is the country or world prepared for the next epidemic? In the US, the hot buttons are the delicate balance between money (economy) and health, healthcare cosst, the vulnerable of society and our responsibility towards them. I hope the Church is part of this discussion too. It is very true that we must have a ‘follow up’ when all this settles.
Easter is not a onetime event. It too requires a serious follow-up. The readings of this weekend indicate to us, what that ‘follow-up’ could look like. The first reading from Acts of the Apostles offers us a glimpse of the first Christian community life after the Resurrection. It tells of how the Gospel was received and lived. There was, of course, an explosion of faith and membership. The spirit and soul of the Church was solid and strong. An evident devotedness to one another and to the scriptures, the breaking of Bread (celebrating the Eucharist), communal prayer, gathering in the temple, concern for one another demonstrated by the selling of property and possession to cater for the needs of the community. There was a sincerity of heart. The result of Easter faith was harmony, solidarity, and generosity which meant a ‘new life’.
Think for a second about our present day communities of faith and how we still emulate those first Christians...or honestly, do not. Does the word ‘community’ even mean anything today? What and who makes your community? What is my criteria for community?
In John’s gospel, the appearances of Jesus are meant to reinforce the disciples’ faith. Jesus passing through walls must strengthen them. They are to be and have Peace. Jesus also commissions them, ‘As the Father sent me, so I send you’ (John 20:21). Now, it is their turn to pass the Easter faith to others who will not physically see Jesus anymore. They will do best only by the way they live their lives. This means ‘follow up’. Doubting Thomas says it right: “Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands and put my finger into the nail-marks and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” (John 20:25) The witness of what one sees and touches, transforms. This disciple must be ready to do this more in times of trials and persecutions.
The message of today’s readings is clear: follow up your Easter faith. The Spiritual quality of our individual lives and community life must be renewed. This means a life of prayer, coming to church. We must let others ‘catch’ the contagious spirit of Jesus- bringing peace (not division). Our outreach efforts as a community must be a priority, even if this means for us to go out of our area. Might our witness even be a cause of ‘awe’?
Some practical starters:
Read the Bible more. Find favorite verses. Reflect on what they mean in your life. Read the Acts of the Apostles.
Pray. Create a prayer time and space in your home.
The Mass. As a family or individual, pledge to come to church more frequently. Make Church non-negotiable.
Outreach: how involved are you at church? Can you do more? Do you have a skill you can share with others? Inform yourself about the wider mission of the Church and see how you can get involved.
A Blessed week in the Lord. Fr. Anthony
View the below video for another Reflection on the readings.
During this time, we would like to come together in the most accesible way we can as a Catholic community.