I have always loved the Second Sunday of Easter when we focus on the transforming encounters and appearance of the Risen Jesus to his chosen friends, the twelve Apostles.
The gospels tell us that the disciples were profoundly changed by their encounters with Jesus after his resurrection. It was Ignatius of Loyola’s firm conviction that, to this day, encounters with the risen Christ will similarly be typified by experiences of hope, joy and life, even amidst the darkest times.
The risen Christ comes into the mess and complexity of real life. As Gerry W. Hughes SJ puts it, ‘God is in the facts.’ JESUS IS APT TO COME, into the very midst of life at its most real and inescapable.
IN THE MIDST. As Trevor Hudson says, “Our seeking after God is simply a faint echo of this seeking love of God, so powerfully revealed in the Resurrection stories. When Jesus sought out those at the end of their rope, he always came as the Consoler, and in a way that was uniquely relevant for each person. As he comforted them through his risen presence, his life-giving words, and his loving actions, the effect of this consolation on his followers was transformative.”
He comes into our midst today. Jesus knows. What makes the difference? What was it that changed Thomas and the others? It was a personal transformative encounter with the present risenness of Jesus, “the Jesus of the scars.”
Thomas do you believe because you have seen me?
Blessed are those who do not see yet believe.
Place your trust and your confidence in the Risen Lord. Be believing, not doubting. Learn to deepen your daily reliance on his being with you “in the midst.” You will be living another kind and species of life, unending, unceasing life. Eternal living can be lived now, in the days God gives here and to come. Eternity is in session! Alleluia!
With you in The Journey and The Way,
Rob+
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