Wednesday in the Octave of Easter
Signs of resurrection are all around us, especially after this hard winter. There is new growth on the trees, new life springing forth from the earth. We also experience new life in the abundance of birds singing in the mornings. These signs along with the ever brightening sun are sufficient to help our souls joyfully sense the wonder and awe of Easter. These are a few of the outward signs that the whole of creation is making to reveal the life, death and resurrection of Jesus.
In today’s gospel, the resurrection is revealed to some of the followers of Jesus. This reality was not understood by all and certainly not by the two on the way to Emmaus. Even when the risen Lord came to walk with them, they did not see him. Did they not recognize the resurrection because something supernatural prevented them? More likely, the eyes of their hearts were looking down or even inward and therefore unable to see Jesus. Perhaps, they simply did not believe that anyone could experience resurrection after the horrifying things they had just witnessed. Indeed, death can reframe the way we look at the world so that nothing else exists. In these times we often fail to recognize Christ anywhere or in anyone. Eventually someone helps us to recognize that life goes beyond death and we begin to see again. Like the disciples on the road, recognizing the Lord again can cause our hearts to leap for joy and want to go and tell the good news.
We recognize and experience resurrection through the words and deeds of Peter and John in today’s first reading. Upon entering the temple area, they encountered a beggar who asked for treasure of a secular nature, money. Instead, Peter offers him something greater, the treasure of healing in the name of Jesus. In reading this miracle, we realize how every detail of the story helps us discover the risen Lord. The story happens at three o’clock, the hour of Jesus’ death. “Peter took him by the right hand and raised him up.” (Acts 3:7) This beggar has a new life that causes him to jump up and begin to walk and praise God. And through this miracle, others are filled with awe. Rejoice O hearts that seek the Lord.
Are we filled with awe at the wonders and miracles that are constantly happening around us? Do we need to open the eyes of our hearts to see the joy the Lord is offering us? The readings today challenge us to try to recognize what Jesus’ resurrection means, so that we too might spring forth in joy. Resurrection images abound if our eyes of faith are attuned to its rhythm. Reflect on the images of resurrection and joy that are present in your life and remember to inform your face by smiling.
Lord, you are constantly walking with us on our journey. Help us to be aware of your presence so that in all we say and do our hearts filled with joy will proclaim you’re wonders. Then our songs of rejoicing will make your resurrection known among our families, our churches, and indeed all the nations. Amen! Alleluia!
-Michael Montgomery