Holy Week is the week before Easter Sunday, beginning seven days before with Palm Sunday. It ends with Holy Saturday. Easter is not part of Holy Week, but rather the beginning of the Easter season of the Liturgical year.
PALM SUNDAY OF THE LORD'S PASSION
SUNDAY, MARCH 24, MARK 14:1-15:47 or 15:1-39
(Isaiah 50:4-7; Psalm 22; Philippians 2:6-11)
KEY VERSE: "Abba, Father, all things are possible to you. Take this cup away from me, but not what I will but what you will” (Mark 14:36).
TO KNOW: Jesus gathered with his disciples to celebrate the Passover feast, which commemorated the Hebrew people's exodus from slavery to freedom (Ex 12). He inaugurated the new covenant with his people by giving them his body and blood in the bread and wine of the Passover meal (vs 22-26). Jesus warned Peter and the other disciples that they would all deny him (vs 27-31). In the garden of Gethsemane, Jesus accepted the bitter cup of suffering (vs 35-36) and was betrayed by Judas who embraced him as a friend (v 45). Jesus was arrested, accused of blasphemy by the religious leaders, and condemned to death by the Roman governor for the crime of sedition (14:53--15:4). The crowds demanded the release of Barabbas ("son of the father") in place of Jesus, the true Son of the Father (vs 6-15). The soldiers mocked him as "King of the Jews" (vs 16-20), and he was led to Golgotha (Hebrew for "skull;" Latin: Calvaria; English: Calvary) where he was crucified between two "revolutionaries" (v 27, zealots). Jesus sealed the covenant with his own blood, and a Gentile soldier made the declaration of faith that Jesus was the "Son of God" (v 39, see Mk 1:1). Joseph of Arimathea, a distinguished member of the Jewish High Council, the Sanhedrin, and secretly a disciple of Jesus (Mt 27:57), offered his own tomb for Jesus' burial. Mary Magdalene, and the other women who faithfully followed him, watched where he was laid.
TO LOVE: Imagine that you are one of the people in this drama: The woman who anointed Jesus? The disciples who betrayed him? Pilate who condemned him? The soldiers who mocked him? The crowds who passively watched? The Centurion who confessed him? Joseph who honored him? The women who followed him?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, help me to be a person of faith and not of fear.
NOTE: The crimes during the Passion of Christ cannot be attributed to all Jews of that time, nor to Jews today. The Jewish people should not be referred to as rejected or cursed. The Church ever keeps in mind that Jesus, his mother Mary, and the Apostles were all Jewish. As the Church has always held, Christ freely suffered his passion and death because of the sins of all, that all might be saved. -- Bishops' Committee for Ecumenical and Inter-religious Affairs
SUNDAY, MARCH 24, MARK 14:1-15:47 or 15:1-39
(Isaiah 50:4-7; Psalm 22; Philippians 2:6-11)
KEY VERSE: "Abba, Father, all things are possible to you. Take this cup away from me, but not what I will but what you will” (Mark 14:36).
TO KNOW: Jesus gathered with his disciples to celebrate the Passover feast, which commemorated the Hebrew people's exodus from slavery to freedom (Ex 12). He inaugurated the new covenant with his people by giving them his body and blood in the bread and wine of the Passover meal (vs 22-26). Jesus warned Peter and the other disciples that they would all deny him (vs 27-31). In the garden of Gethsemane, Jesus accepted the bitter cup of suffering (vs 35-36) and was betrayed by Judas who embraced him as a friend (v 45). Jesus was arrested, accused of blasphemy by the religious leaders, and condemned to death by the Roman governor for the crime of sedition (14:53--15:4). The crowds demanded the release of Barabbas ("son of the father") in place of Jesus, the true Son of the Father (vs 6-15). The soldiers mocked him as "King of the Jews" (vs 16-20), and he was led to Golgotha (Hebrew for "skull;" Latin: Calvaria; English: Calvary) where he was crucified between two "revolutionaries" (v 27, zealots). Jesus sealed the covenant with his own blood, and a Gentile soldier made the declaration of faith that Jesus was the "Son of God" (v 39, see Mk 1:1). Joseph of Arimathea, a distinguished member of the Jewish High Council, the Sanhedrin, and secretly a disciple of Jesus (Mt 27:57), offered his own tomb for Jesus' burial. Mary Magdalene, and the other women who faithfully followed him, watched where he was laid.
TO LOVE: Imagine that you are one of the people in this drama: The woman who anointed Jesus? The disciples who betrayed him? Pilate who condemned him? The soldiers who mocked him? The crowds who passively watched? The Centurion who confessed him? Joseph who honored him? The women who followed him?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, help me to be a person of faith and not of fear.
NOTE: The crimes during the Passion of Christ cannot be attributed to all Jews of that time, nor to Jews today. The Jewish people should not be referred to as rejected or cursed. The Church ever keeps in mind that Jesus, his mother Mary, and the Apostles were all Jewish. As the Church has always held, Christ freely suffered his passion and death because of the sins of all, that all might be saved. -- Bishops' Committee for Ecumenical and Inter-religious Affairs
MONDAY, MARCH 25, JOHN 12:1-11
Monday of Holy Week
(Isaiah 42:1-7; Psalm 27)
KEY VERSE: "Leave her alone. Let her keep this for the day of my burial" (John 12:7).
TO KNOW: After Jesus had raised Lazarus from the dead, he joined his friends Martha and Mary for a joyful celebration in Bethany (“House of Figs”). This would be his last visit with them, for Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem and his passion at Calvary. True to their unique natures, Martha helped with the serving and Mary knelt at Jesus’ feet to listen to his teaching. As he reclined at the table, Mary anointed his feet with expensive oil (in Luke's gospel, the woman is a repentant sinner, 7:36-38). The house was filled with the fragrance of her generosity, but Judas saw this as an extravagant waste. He declared that the money could be better used for the poor. Jesus commended the woman's deed as an act of charity in preparation for his burial. While there would always be the poor, they would not always have Jesus with them.
TO LOVE: Is my devotion to the Lord reflected in my service to the poor?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, let my life be a sweet aroma to draw others to you.
NOTE: Nowhere in the gospels is Mary Magdalene named as a penitent sinner. Her name is first in the list of witnesses to Christ's resurrection (Mk 16:1-11; Mt 28:1; Lk 24:10; Jn 20:11-18; 1 Cor 15:5-8). Mary Magdalene is considered by the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Anglican churches to be a saint, the “Apostle to the Apostles.”
Monday of Holy Week
(Isaiah 42:1-7; Psalm 27)
KEY VERSE: "Leave her alone. Let her keep this for the day of my burial" (John 12:7).
TO KNOW: After Jesus had raised Lazarus from the dead, he joined his friends Martha and Mary for a joyful celebration in Bethany (“House of Figs”). This would be his last visit with them, for Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem and his passion at Calvary. True to their unique natures, Martha helped with the serving and Mary knelt at Jesus’ feet to listen to his teaching. As he reclined at the table, Mary anointed his feet with expensive oil (in Luke's gospel, the woman is a repentant sinner, 7:36-38). The house was filled with the fragrance of her generosity, but Judas saw this as an extravagant waste. He declared that the money could be better used for the poor. Jesus commended the woman's deed as an act of charity in preparation for his burial. While there would always be the poor, they would not always have Jesus with them.
TO LOVE: Is my devotion to the Lord reflected in my service to the poor?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, let my life be a sweet aroma to draw others to you.
NOTE: Nowhere in the gospels is Mary Magdalene named as a penitent sinner. Her name is first in the list of witnesses to Christ's resurrection (Mk 16:1-11; Mt 28:1; Lk 24:10; Jn 20:11-18; 1 Cor 15:5-8). Mary Magdalene is considered by the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Anglican churches to be a saint, the “Apostle to the Apostles.”
TUESDAY, MARCH 26, JOHN 13:21-33, 36-38
Tuesday of Holy Week
(Isaiah 49:1-6; Psalm 71)
KEY VERSE: "So [Jesus] dipped the morsel and handed it to Judas, son of Simon the Iscariot” (John 13:26).
TO KNOW: During the Passover meal, the last supper Jesus would share with his disciples, he made a solemn declaration that one of his disciples would betray him. Reclining at the table (the Greek style of dining of the day), John leaned his head on Jesus' chest in anguish. Just as Jesus reposed in the heart of the Father, the disciple abided in the bosom of the Lord. Although Judas was preparing to betray him, as a last gesture of love, Jesus handed him a morsel of bitter herbs dipped in salt water (a symbol of the tears shed by the slaves in Egypt). Judas took the offering and quickly departed. Judas’ betrayal expresses the mysterium iniquitatis (the mystery of evil), for there is no rational ground for it. He had spent years in intimacy with Jesus, sharing table fellowship with him—and yet, he saw fit to turn Jesus over to his enemies. To illustrate Judas' dark deed, John wrote poignantly, "and it was night" (v.30). Jesus warned Peter that he would also betray him by denying that he knew him. Peter protested that he would lay down his life for his Master, but Jesus knew that Peter would fail him. It was left to Jesus to make this final journey alone.
TO LOVE: Am I able to reconcile with someone whom I have hurt or who has injured me?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, forgive me for the many ways I betray your love.
Tuesday of Holy Week
(Isaiah 49:1-6; Psalm 71)
KEY VERSE: "So [Jesus] dipped the morsel and handed it to Judas, son of Simon the Iscariot” (John 13:26).
TO KNOW: During the Passover meal, the last supper Jesus would share with his disciples, he made a solemn declaration that one of his disciples would betray him. Reclining at the table (the Greek style of dining of the day), John leaned his head on Jesus' chest in anguish. Just as Jesus reposed in the heart of the Father, the disciple abided in the bosom of the Lord. Although Judas was preparing to betray him, as a last gesture of love, Jesus handed him a morsel of bitter herbs dipped in salt water (a symbol of the tears shed by the slaves in Egypt). Judas took the offering and quickly departed. Judas’ betrayal expresses the mysterium iniquitatis (the mystery of evil), for there is no rational ground for it. He had spent years in intimacy with Jesus, sharing table fellowship with him—and yet, he saw fit to turn Jesus over to his enemies. To illustrate Judas' dark deed, John wrote poignantly, "and it was night" (v.30). Jesus warned Peter that he would also betray him by denying that he knew him. Peter protested that he would lay down his life for his Master, but Jesus knew that Peter would fail him. It was left to Jesus to make this final journey alone.
TO LOVE: Am I able to reconcile with someone whom I have hurt or who has injured me?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, forgive me for the many ways I betray your love.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27, MATTHEW 26:14-25
Wednesday of Holy Week
(Isaiah 50:4-9a; Psalm 69)
KEY VERSE: "Amen, I say to you, one of you will betray me" (Matthew 26:21).
TO KNOW: The prophet Zechariah prefigured Jesus in that, even though he was a good shepherd to his flock, his service was rejected. Like Zechariah, Jesus attempted to lead his people with a prophetic and pastoral ministry, but he ended up suffering at the hands of his enemies. Judas Iscariot, one of the Twelve Apostles, plotted with the chief priests to betray Jesus for "thirty pieces of silver," the price of a wounded slave (Ex 21:32; Zec 11:12). Matthew suggested that Judas' motive was greed. But perhaps it was that Judas never truly understand who Jesus was. The other disciples called Jesus "Lord" while Judas addressed him as "rabbi" or "teacher." Although God used Judas' treacherous act to fulfill the divine plan, the disciple was not absolved from personal responsibility for his grievous sin.
TO LOVE: Have I participated in the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the ways I have denied the Lord through my words or deeds?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, give me the grace to be faithful to you as I take up my cross and follow you.
Wednesday of Holy Week
(Isaiah 50:4-9a; Psalm 69)
KEY VERSE: "Amen, I say to you, one of you will betray me" (Matthew 26:21).
TO KNOW: The prophet Zechariah prefigured Jesus in that, even though he was a good shepherd to his flock, his service was rejected. Like Zechariah, Jesus attempted to lead his people with a prophetic and pastoral ministry, but he ended up suffering at the hands of his enemies. Judas Iscariot, one of the Twelve Apostles, plotted with the chief priests to betray Jesus for "thirty pieces of silver," the price of a wounded slave (Ex 21:32; Zec 11:12). Matthew suggested that Judas' motive was greed. But perhaps it was that Judas never truly understand who Jesus was. The other disciples called Jesus "Lord" while Judas addressed him as "rabbi" or "teacher." Although God used Judas' treacherous act to fulfill the divine plan, the disciple was not absolved from personal responsibility for his grievous sin.
TO LOVE: Have I participated in the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the ways I have denied the Lord through my words or deeds?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, give me the grace to be faithful to you as I take up my cross and follow you.
EASTER TRIDUUM
The summit of the Liturgical Year is the Easter Triduum—from the evening of Holy Thursday to the evening of Easter Sunday. Though chronologically three days, they are liturgically one day unfolding for us the unity of Christ's Paschal Mystery. The single celebration of the Triduum marks the end of the Lenten season and leads to the Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord at the Easter Vigil. Holy Thursday is also known as “Maundy Thursday," from the Latin mandatum, for “command,” the instruction Jesus gave to his disciples at the Last Supper that they should love and serve one another as he did.
The summit of the Liturgical Year is the Easter Triduum—from the evening of Holy Thursday to the evening of Easter Sunday. Though chronologically three days, they are liturgically one day unfolding for us the unity of Christ's Paschal Mystery. The single celebration of the Triduum marks the end of the Lenten season and leads to the Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord at the Easter Vigil. Holy Thursday is also known as “Maundy Thursday," from the Latin mandatum, for “command,” the instruction Jesus gave to his disciples at the Last Supper that they should love and serve one another as he did.
THURSDAY, MARCH 28, JOHN 13:1-15
Thursday of Holy Week (Holy Thursday) Evening Mass of the Lord's Supper
(Exodus 12:1-8, 11-14; Psalm 116; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26)
KEY VERSE: “As I have done so you must do" (John 13:15).
TO KNOW: Chapter 13 of John's gospel begins the "Book of Glory" (13:1 - 20:31). The “hour” had come, and Jesus was on the threshold of his saving death. He wanted to demonstrate his love for his disciples, a love that he would show them "to the end" (v.1). Although Jesus was "fully aware" that God had put "everything into his power" (v.3), he rose from the table, stripped himself of his outer garments and began to bathe the feet of his disciples, a menial task only required of the lowliest slave. When Peter objected to having his feet washed, Jesus insisted that Peter must receive his love if he wanted to share his heritage. Jesus commanded his disciples they follow his example and serve one another. The washing of the feet on Holy Thursday is a reminder to all who have been cleansed by the purifying waters of Baptism, to follow Christ's example of humble service. He teaches the leaders of the Church that their role must be one of service, not of power.
TO LOVE: Am I willing to do the humble tasks asked of me today?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, help me to follow your example of loving service.
NOTE: Participation in Jesus' saving death is through baptism, without which we will have no inheritance with Jesus (John 13:8) and through which we are “clean all over” and need not be washed (baptized) again (v. 10).
Thursday of Holy Week (Holy Thursday) Evening Mass of the Lord's Supper
(Exodus 12:1-8, 11-14; Psalm 116; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26)
KEY VERSE: “As I have done so you must do" (John 13:15).
TO KNOW: Chapter 13 of John's gospel begins the "Book of Glory" (13:1 - 20:31). The “hour” had come, and Jesus was on the threshold of his saving death. He wanted to demonstrate his love for his disciples, a love that he would show them "to the end" (v.1). Although Jesus was "fully aware" that God had put "everything into his power" (v.3), he rose from the table, stripped himself of his outer garments and began to bathe the feet of his disciples, a menial task only required of the lowliest slave. When Peter objected to having his feet washed, Jesus insisted that Peter must receive his love if he wanted to share his heritage. Jesus commanded his disciples they follow his example and serve one another. The washing of the feet on Holy Thursday is a reminder to all who have been cleansed by the purifying waters of Baptism, to follow Christ's example of humble service. He teaches the leaders of the Church that their role must be one of service, not of power.
TO LOVE: Am I willing to do the humble tasks asked of me today?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, help me to follow your example of loving service.
NOTE: Participation in Jesus' saving death is through baptism, without which we will have no inheritance with Jesus (John 13:8) and through which we are “clean all over” and need not be washed (baptized) again (v. 10).
FRIDAY, MARCH 29, JOHN 18:1--19:42
Friday of the Passion of the Lord (Good Friday)
Day of Fast and Abstinence
(Isaiah 52:13 ̶ 53:12; Psalm 31; Hebrews 4:14-16, 5:7-9)
KEY VERSE: "It is finished" (John 18:30).
TO KNOW: The passion and death of Jesus is ritually expressed in the liturgy of Good Friday. It is the only day of the year when Mass is not celebrated. The service held in the afternoon recalls the "hour" of Jesus' crucifixion. The red vestments signify the blood that Jesus shed. Just as Jesus was stripped of his garments, the altar is laid bare. The readings are somber; Jesus is the suffering servant of the Lord. The assembly listens to John's Gospel recounting Jesus' passion and death. The mental and physical pains that Jesus suffered cannot be measured. The crown of thorns pierced his head; his back whipped with forty lashes; carrying the cross to the place of his crucifixion and, to add to all this torment, Jesus' hands and feet were nailed to the wood of the cross. At Jesus' last words, "It is finished" (Jn 19: 30), we bow our heads and kneel in prayer. Then we come forward to venerate the cross of salvation, and to receive the body and blood of the Lord in communion. Jesus offers us his forgiveness for all our deadly sins. His crucifixion was the opening up of the divine heart so that we could see that no sin of ours could finally separate us from the love of God.
TO LOVE: Gaze at a crucifix and remember the sacrificial love Jesus has for each of us.
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, "Through the cross you brought joy to the world" (Antiphon, Veneration of the Cross).
Friday of the Passion of the Lord (Good Friday)
Day of Fast and Abstinence
(Isaiah 52:13 ̶ 53:12; Psalm 31; Hebrews 4:14-16, 5:7-9)
KEY VERSE: "It is finished" (John 18:30).
TO KNOW: The passion and death of Jesus is ritually expressed in the liturgy of Good Friday. It is the only day of the year when Mass is not celebrated. The service held in the afternoon recalls the "hour" of Jesus' crucifixion. The red vestments signify the blood that Jesus shed. Just as Jesus was stripped of his garments, the altar is laid bare. The readings are somber; Jesus is the suffering servant of the Lord. The assembly listens to John's Gospel recounting Jesus' passion and death. The mental and physical pains that Jesus suffered cannot be measured. The crown of thorns pierced his head; his back whipped with forty lashes; carrying the cross to the place of his crucifixion and, to add to all this torment, Jesus' hands and feet were nailed to the wood of the cross. At Jesus' last words, "It is finished" (Jn 19: 30), we bow our heads and kneel in prayer. Then we come forward to venerate the cross of salvation, and to receive the body and blood of the Lord in communion. Jesus offers us his forgiveness for all our deadly sins. His crucifixion was the opening up of the divine heart so that we could see that no sin of ours could finally separate us from the love of God.
TO LOVE: Gaze at a crucifix and remember the sacrificial love Jesus has for each of us.
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, "Through the cross you brought joy to the world" (Antiphon, Veneration of the Cross).
SATURDAY, MARCH 30, MARK 16:1-7
Holy Saturday
(Exodus 14:15 -- 15:1;* Psalm 118; Romans 6: 3-11)
KEY VERSE: "You seek Jesus of Nazareth, the crucified. He has been raised; he is not here." (Mark 16:6)
TO KNOW: On Holy Saturday, the Church waits with the women at the Lord's tomb, meditating on his suffering and death. There is no sacrifice of the Mass celebrated during the day. The solemn vigil at night anticipates Easter morning, symbolizing light versus darkness. The Easter candle expresses Christ as our light. In the Sacrament of Baptism, candidates experience the dying and rising of Christ. The faithful renew their baptismal commitment, dying to the sinful self, and dedicating their lives to the love and service of the risen Lord. Like the women at the tomb, each of us has a choice. We can continue to search in all the wrong places for the answers to life's questions, or we can believe the testimony of the empty tomb and experience true life with the Risen Christ.
TO LOVE: Have I shared the good news of Christ's resurrection with my brothers and sisters?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to have faith that I will one day rise with you to eternal life.
* Nine readings are assigned to the Easter vigil: seven from the Hebrew Scriptures, and two from the Christian Scriptures. While the number may be less, the reading from Exodus should always be used.
Holy Saturday
(Exodus 14:15 -- 15:1;* Psalm 118; Romans 6: 3-11)
KEY VERSE: "You seek Jesus of Nazareth, the crucified. He has been raised; he is not here." (Mark 16:6)
TO KNOW: On Holy Saturday, the Church waits with the women at the Lord's tomb, meditating on his suffering and death. There is no sacrifice of the Mass celebrated during the day. The solemn vigil at night anticipates Easter morning, symbolizing light versus darkness. The Easter candle expresses Christ as our light. In the Sacrament of Baptism, candidates experience the dying and rising of Christ. The faithful renew their baptismal commitment, dying to the sinful self, and dedicating their lives to the love and service of the risen Lord. Like the women at the tomb, each of us has a choice. We can continue to search in all the wrong places for the answers to life's questions, or we can believe the testimony of the empty tomb and experience true life with the Risen Christ.
TO LOVE: Have I shared the good news of Christ's resurrection with my brothers and sisters?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to have faith that I will one day rise with you to eternal life.
* Nine readings are assigned to the Easter vigil: seven from the Hebrew Scriptures, and two from the Christian Scriptures. While the number may be less, the reading from Exodus should always be used.
SOLEMNITY OF EASTER SUNDAY OF THE RESURRECTION OF THE LORD
Easter Sunday, MARCH 31
JOHN 20:1-9 OR MARK 16:1-7, OR, AT AFTERNOON OR EVENING MASS, LUKE 24:13-35
(Acts 10:34a, 37-43; Psalm 118; Colossians 3:1-4 or 1 Corinthians 5:6b-8)
KEY VERSE: "He saw and believed" (John 20:8).
TO KNOW: The night was over, and the morning light of the new creation was beginning to dawn. In the garden of the Resurrection, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb while it was still dark, grieving over the death of her beloved Lord. When she discovered that the stone closing the entrance to the tomb had been rolled away, she feared that the body of Jesus had been stolen. Mary ran to tell Peter and John, and the two disciples raced to the tomb to see for themselves. John (the "disciple whom Jesus loved," Jn 20:2), arrived first and peered into the empty tomb. The shroud was still there; the body had not been stolen. Then John allowed Peter, the elder Apostle, to enter the tomb first and see for himself. Peter was slow to understand the meaning of the empty tomb, but John was convinced of Christ's resurrection; he "saw and believed" (v.8). Like John, we see no physical evidence of the Risen Christ, yet we know in faith that he is alive in the world and in the hearts of all who believe in him. The cross was Rome’s way of asserting its power, but when Jesus was raised from the dead Caesar’s days were numbered.
TO LOVE: Where will I discover the Risen Lord today?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, thank you for bringing your light into the darkness of our world.
NOTE: Following an ancient tradition, the Church regards the eight days (an octave) from the Paschal Feast of the Resurrection to the Second Sunday of Easter as a single unit of celebration. The preface for Easter day is prayed again on the Second Sunday of Easter even though it is a week behind us: "We praise you with greater joy than ever on this Easter day." The celebration of the liturgy is full of joy at the close of the octave of this great feast! The Easter season of 50 days continues through the Seventh Sunday of Easter (Celebrated as the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord in some dioceses).
Easter Sunday, MARCH 31
JOHN 20:1-9 OR MARK 16:1-7, OR, AT AFTERNOON OR EVENING MASS, LUKE 24:13-35
(Acts 10:34a, 37-43; Psalm 118; Colossians 3:1-4 or 1 Corinthians 5:6b-8)
KEY VERSE: "He saw and believed" (John 20:8).
TO KNOW: The night was over, and the morning light of the new creation was beginning to dawn. In the garden of the Resurrection, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb while it was still dark, grieving over the death of her beloved Lord. When she discovered that the stone closing the entrance to the tomb had been rolled away, she feared that the body of Jesus had been stolen. Mary ran to tell Peter and John, and the two disciples raced to the tomb to see for themselves. John (the "disciple whom Jesus loved," Jn 20:2), arrived first and peered into the empty tomb. The shroud was still there; the body had not been stolen. Then John allowed Peter, the elder Apostle, to enter the tomb first and see for himself. Peter was slow to understand the meaning of the empty tomb, but John was convinced of Christ's resurrection; he "saw and believed" (v.8). Like John, we see no physical evidence of the Risen Christ, yet we know in faith that he is alive in the world and in the hearts of all who believe in him. The cross was Rome’s way of asserting its power, but when Jesus was raised from the dead Caesar’s days were numbered.
TO LOVE: Where will I discover the Risen Lord today?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, thank you for bringing your light into the darkness of our world.
NOTE: Following an ancient tradition, the Church regards the eight days (an octave) from the Paschal Feast of the Resurrection to the Second Sunday of Easter as a single unit of celebration. The preface for Easter day is prayed again on the Second Sunday of Easter even though it is a week behind us: "We praise you with greater joy than ever on this Easter day." The celebration of the liturgy is full of joy at the close of the octave of this great feast! The Easter season of 50 days continues through the Seventh Sunday of Easter (Celebrated as the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord in some dioceses).
MONDAY, APRIL 1, MATTHEW 28:8-15
Monday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 2:14, 22-33; Psalm 16)
KEY VERSE: "Do not be afraid. Go tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me" (Matthew 28:10).
TO KNOW: By the time Matthew wrote his gospel there was a dispute between the Jewish leaders and the followers of Jesus regarding the meaning of the empty tomb. The religious leaders believed Jesus' followers had stolen his body. Matthew maintained that the men had fled Jerusalem after Jesus' arrest (Matthew 26:56); therefore, they could not be guilty. Women were the only eyewitnesses of the empty tomb. When they came to the tomb to anoint Jesus' body, they were commanded by an angelic messenger to inform the disciples that Jesus had been raised from the dead. They were afraid because a woman's testimony was not considered valid, yet they hastened to announce the joyful news that Jesus had risen. As they went on their way, the Risen Christ appeared to them and told them to have no fear. He would meet his disciples in Galilee.
TO LOVE: Have I shared the good news of the Resurrection with someone who needs to hear it?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to overcome my fears to proclaim your gospel.
Monday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 2:14, 22-33; Psalm 16)
KEY VERSE: "Do not be afraid. Go tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me" (Matthew 28:10).
TO KNOW: By the time Matthew wrote his gospel there was a dispute between the Jewish leaders and the followers of Jesus regarding the meaning of the empty tomb. The religious leaders believed Jesus' followers had stolen his body. Matthew maintained that the men had fled Jerusalem after Jesus' arrest (Matthew 26:56); therefore, they could not be guilty. Women were the only eyewitnesses of the empty tomb. When they came to the tomb to anoint Jesus' body, they were commanded by an angelic messenger to inform the disciples that Jesus had been raised from the dead. They were afraid because a woman's testimony was not considered valid, yet they hastened to announce the joyful news that Jesus had risen. As they went on their way, the Risen Christ appeared to them and told them to have no fear. He would meet his disciples in Galilee.
TO LOVE: Have I shared the good news of the Resurrection with someone who needs to hear it?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to overcome my fears to proclaim your gospel.
Ancient cultures, including the Romans, celebrated New Year's Day on April 1, which closely follows the vernal equinox (March 20th or March 21st.). In medieval times, much of Europe celebrated March 25, the Feast of Annunciation, as the beginning of the New Year. In 1582, Pope Gregory XIII ordered a new calendar (the Gregorian calendar) to replace the old Julian calendar. The new calendar called for New Year's Day to be celebrated on January 1. Communication being what it was in those days, many people did not receive the news for several years. Others refused to accept the new calendar and continued to celebrate New Year’s Day on April 1. These backward folk, labeled as "fools," were subject to ridicule and made the butt of practical jokes.
The first of April is the day we remember what we are the other 364 days of the year. - Mark Twain
The first of April is the day we remember what we are the other 364 days of the year. - Mark Twain
TUESDAY, APRIL 2, JOHN 20:11-18
Tuesday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 2:36-41; Psalm 33)
KEY VERSE: "I have seen the Lord" (John 20:18).
TO KNOW: When Mary Magdalene told Peter and John that Jesus had risen from the dead, they hurried to inspect the empty tomb for themselves. When they returned to their homes, Mary Magdalene was left alone in the garden, fearing that someone had taken away Jesus' body, she wept. When the Risen Christ appeared to her, she mistook him for the gardener. In truth, he was the new Adam, the keeper of the garden of the new creation. Through her tears, Mary failed to recognize her Lord, but when he spoke her name, she knew that he was her "dear master" (Hebrew, Rabbouni, teacher). Jesus told her not to cling to him in the joy of her discovery. He had a mission for her, that of sharing the good news with his "brothers," the rest of his disciples. The Church regards Mary Magdalene as an "Apostle to the Apostles," the redeemed daughter of the Lord," the first to see the Risen Christ.
TO LOVE: Do I give testimony of the Risen Christ to my brothers and sisters?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to recognize you in all those around me.
Tuesday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 2:36-41; Psalm 33)
KEY VERSE: "I have seen the Lord" (John 20:18).
TO KNOW: When Mary Magdalene told Peter and John that Jesus had risen from the dead, they hurried to inspect the empty tomb for themselves. When they returned to their homes, Mary Magdalene was left alone in the garden, fearing that someone had taken away Jesus' body, she wept. When the Risen Christ appeared to her, she mistook him for the gardener. In truth, he was the new Adam, the keeper of the garden of the new creation. Through her tears, Mary failed to recognize her Lord, but when he spoke her name, she knew that he was her "dear master" (Hebrew, Rabbouni, teacher). Jesus told her not to cling to him in the joy of her discovery. He had a mission for her, that of sharing the good news with his "brothers," the rest of his disciples. The Church regards Mary Magdalene as an "Apostle to the Apostles," the redeemed daughter of the Lord," the first to see the Risen Christ.
TO LOVE: Do I give testimony of the Risen Christ to my brothers and sisters?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to recognize you in all those around me.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3, LUKE 24:13-35
Wednesday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 3:1-10; Psalm 105)
KEY VERSE: "Were not our hearts burning within us while he spoke to us on the way and opened the scriptures to us?" (Luke 24:32).
TO KNOW: On their way home from their pilgrimage for the Feast of Passover, two disciples discussed the meaning of the events that they witnessed in Jerusalem. As they walked along, the Risen Christ appeared to them. But they did not recognize him and mistook him for another pilgrim. They told the "stranger" that Jesus was a mighty "prophet" (v. 19). Jesus then opened the scriptures and explained to them God's plan as revealed in the Law and the Prophets (the Torah). Although they had lost hope that Jesus was the expected Messiah, the "one to redeem Israel" (v. 21), Jesus told them that it was "necessary" that he should suffer to enter glory (v. 26). At nightfall, the disciples urged him to stay and share a meal with them. At first, their eyes were closed to Jesus' identity, but then they recognized him at table "in the breaking of the bread" (v. 35). Although Jesus vanished from sight, he continues to be present to us in the breaking of the word in the scriptures and the breaking of the bread in the Eucharist.
TO LOVE: Only one disciple (Cleopas) is named in the story. Am I the other disciple?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to recognize your presence in the Mass.
NOTE: "Our Hearts Were Burning Within Us" is a Pastoral Plan for Adult Faith Formation in the United States from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). The bishops call "Every disciple of the Lord Jesus to share in this mission. To do their part, adult Catholics must be mature in faith and well-equipped to share the Gospel, promoting it in every family circle, in every church gathering, in every place of work, and in every public forum. They must be women and men of prayer whose faith is alive and vital, grounded in a deep commitment to the person and message of Jesus."
Wednesday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 3:1-10; Psalm 105)
KEY VERSE: "Were not our hearts burning within us while he spoke to us on the way and opened the scriptures to us?" (Luke 24:32).
TO KNOW: On their way home from their pilgrimage for the Feast of Passover, two disciples discussed the meaning of the events that they witnessed in Jerusalem. As they walked along, the Risen Christ appeared to them. But they did not recognize him and mistook him for another pilgrim. They told the "stranger" that Jesus was a mighty "prophet" (v. 19). Jesus then opened the scriptures and explained to them God's plan as revealed in the Law and the Prophets (the Torah). Although they had lost hope that Jesus was the expected Messiah, the "one to redeem Israel" (v. 21), Jesus told them that it was "necessary" that he should suffer to enter glory (v. 26). At nightfall, the disciples urged him to stay and share a meal with them. At first, their eyes were closed to Jesus' identity, but then they recognized him at table "in the breaking of the bread" (v. 35). Although Jesus vanished from sight, he continues to be present to us in the breaking of the word in the scriptures and the breaking of the bread in the Eucharist.
TO LOVE: Only one disciple (Cleopas) is named in the story. Am I the other disciple?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to recognize your presence in the Mass.
NOTE: "Our Hearts Were Burning Within Us" is a Pastoral Plan for Adult Faith Formation in the United States from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). The bishops call "Every disciple of the Lord Jesus to share in this mission. To do their part, adult Catholics must be mature in faith and well-equipped to share the Gospel, promoting it in every family circle, in every church gathering, in every place of work, and in every public forum. They must be women and men of prayer whose faith is alive and vital, grounded in a deep commitment to the person and message of Jesus."
THURSDAY, APRIL 4, LUKE 24:35-48
Thursday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 3:11-26; Psalm 8)
KEY VERSE: "He stood in their midst and said to them, `Peace be with you'" (Luke 24:36).
TO KNOW: After the two pilgrims from Emmaus recognized Jesus "in the breaking of the bread" (v. 35), they returned to Jerusalem to announce the good news to the eleven Apostles and those with them. But they discovered that Simon (Peter) had already experienced the risen Lord. Then the pilgrims recounted how their hearts burned within them on their journey to Emmaus, how Jesus opened the scriptures to them, and how he became known to them in the breaking of bread. While they were still speaking, Jesus appeared in their midst and imparted peace to his distressed followers. He reassured them that he was not a ghost by showing them the wounds of the crucifixion and by sharing a meal with them. He reminded them that he had told them that he would suffer, die, and rise from the dead. Jesus declared that everything in the scriptures had been fulfilled by him. His followers were witnesses of these events and were commanded to proclaim a message of "repentance for the forgiveness of sins" (v. 47).
TO LOVE: In what ways do I bring the peace of Christ to those who are anxious and afraid?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, give me the courage to proclaim your resurrection.
Thursday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 3:11-26; Psalm 8)
KEY VERSE: "He stood in their midst and said to them, `Peace be with you'" (Luke 24:36).
TO KNOW: After the two pilgrims from Emmaus recognized Jesus "in the breaking of the bread" (v. 35), they returned to Jerusalem to announce the good news to the eleven Apostles and those with them. But they discovered that Simon (Peter) had already experienced the risen Lord. Then the pilgrims recounted how their hearts burned within them on their journey to Emmaus, how Jesus opened the scriptures to them, and how he became known to them in the breaking of bread. While they were still speaking, Jesus appeared in their midst and imparted peace to his distressed followers. He reassured them that he was not a ghost by showing them the wounds of the crucifixion and by sharing a meal with them. He reminded them that he had told them that he would suffer, die, and rise from the dead. Jesus declared that everything in the scriptures had been fulfilled by him. His followers were witnesses of these events and were commanded to proclaim a message of "repentance for the forgiveness of sins" (v. 47).
TO LOVE: In what ways do I bring the peace of Christ to those who are anxious and afraid?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, give me the courage to proclaim your resurrection.
FRIDAY, APRIL 5, JOHN 21:1-14
Friday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 4:1-12; Psalm 118)
KEY VERSE: "It is the Lord!" (John 21:7).
TO KNOW: After the resurrection, Peter and six other disciples went fishing. In the half-light of the morning, the Risen Christ called to them from the shore, telling them to cast their nets to the right side of the boat. Although they had fished all night and caught nothing, their obedience brought forth a great catch of fish. John was the first to understand the meaning of this sign and cried, "It is the Lord!" Peter was the first to act, swimming and dragging the heavily laden net to shore. Although the net held a great catch of fish it was not torn. The unbroken net is a symbol of the future mission of the Church to bring all souls to Christ. St. Jerome claimed that the Greeks identified 153 species of fish in the sea. The miraculous catch included every kind of fish; therefore, the number symbolized the day when all of the nations would be gathered together in God's kingdom. When Jesus' disciples assembled on the shore, he shared a meal with them, distributing bread and fish just as he did in the miraculous multiplication of the loaves and fish in the wilderness (Jn 6:1-13). The Risen Christ was not a vision or a spirit, nor was he a ghost. He was the Lord who conquered sin and death through his dying and rising.
TO LOVE: Do I allow the Lord to direct me despite doubts as to the outcome?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, guide all my words and deeds so that I will bring many souls to you.
Friday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 4:1-12; Psalm 118)
KEY VERSE: "It is the Lord!" (John 21:7).
TO KNOW: After the resurrection, Peter and six other disciples went fishing. In the half-light of the morning, the Risen Christ called to them from the shore, telling them to cast their nets to the right side of the boat. Although they had fished all night and caught nothing, their obedience brought forth a great catch of fish. John was the first to understand the meaning of this sign and cried, "It is the Lord!" Peter was the first to act, swimming and dragging the heavily laden net to shore. Although the net held a great catch of fish it was not torn. The unbroken net is a symbol of the future mission of the Church to bring all souls to Christ. St. Jerome claimed that the Greeks identified 153 species of fish in the sea. The miraculous catch included every kind of fish; therefore, the number symbolized the day when all of the nations would be gathered together in God's kingdom. When Jesus' disciples assembled on the shore, he shared a meal with them, distributing bread and fish just as he did in the miraculous multiplication of the loaves and fish in the wilderness (Jn 6:1-13). The Risen Christ was not a vision or a spirit, nor was he a ghost. He was the Lord who conquered sin and death through his dying and rising.
TO LOVE: Do I allow the Lord to direct me despite doubts as to the outcome?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, guide all my words and deeds so that I will bring many souls to you.
SATURDAY, APRIL 6, MARK 16:9-15
Saturday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 4:13-21; Psalm 118)
KEY VERSE: "Go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature" (Mark 16:15).
TO KNOW: This section of Mark's Gospel (verses 9-20) is termed the "Longer Ending." It is believed that this material was added later from other traditions to complete what was thought to be an abrupt ending of the empty tomb in Mark's gospel. The longer version includes Christ's appearance to Mary Magdalene (see John 20:1-18), and to two disciples on a country road to Emmaus (see Lk 24:13-24). The disciples did not believe any of these witnesses, and later, when they "were at table" (Mark 16:14, Eucharist), the Lord appeared to them and rebuked them for their unbelief. Jesus then commissioned his followers to go into the world and proclaim the message of salvation to everyone. But Mark's purpose in writing was complete; Jesus was raised from the dead just as he told his followers. Mark’s message encouraged the Christian community to be fearless in announcing the gospel of Jesus. Mark’s original ending leaves his readers to “complete” his Gospel by the way they live their lives.
TO LOVE: Have I the courage to share the good news with those who do not believe?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to believe that you are with us always.
Saturday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 4:13-21; Psalm 118)
KEY VERSE: "Go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature" (Mark 16:15).
TO KNOW: This section of Mark's Gospel (verses 9-20) is termed the "Longer Ending." It is believed that this material was added later from other traditions to complete what was thought to be an abrupt ending of the empty tomb in Mark's gospel. The longer version includes Christ's appearance to Mary Magdalene (see John 20:1-18), and to two disciples on a country road to Emmaus (see Lk 24:13-24). The disciples did not believe any of these witnesses, and later, when they "were at table" (Mark 16:14, Eucharist), the Lord appeared to them and rebuked them for their unbelief. Jesus then commissioned his followers to go into the world and proclaim the message of salvation to everyone. But Mark's purpose in writing was complete; Jesus was raised from the dead just as he told his followers. Mark’s message encouraged the Christian community to be fearless in announcing the gospel of Jesus. Mark’s original ending leaves his readers to “complete” his Gospel by the way they live their lives.
TO LOVE: Have I the courage to share the good news with those who do not believe?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to believe that you are with us always.
SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER (SUNDAY OF DIVINE MERCY)
SUNDAY, APRIL 7, JOHN 20:19-31
(Acts 4:32-35; Psalm 118; 1 John 5:1-6)
KEY VERSE: "Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed" (John 20:29).
TO KNOW: On the evening of the resurrection, the disciples were gathered in fear behind locked doors. They were overjoyed when the Risen Lord appeared in their midst with a greeting of "peace" (Hebrew, Shalom). Just as God breathed life into Adam, the first living being (see Gen 2:7), the Son of God breathed the life-giving Spirit upon his disciples, sending them forth with the power to forgive sins. Thomas (called Didymus, meaning “twin”) was absent on this occasion and he refused to believe their testimony. His defiant words "unless I see" (Jn 20:25) came from one who knew Jesus as an intimate friend. A week later, the Risen Christ appeared again, and this time Thomas was present. When Thomas touched Christ's wounds, he declared Jesus to be his "Lord and God." Jesus told Thomas that those who believed in faith were more blessed than those who needed visible proof.
TO LOVE: Am I Thomas’ twin? Do I refuse to believe unless I see?
TO SERVE: My Lord and my God, help me to believe when my faith wavers.
SUNDAY, APRIL 7, JOHN 20:19-31
(Acts 4:32-35; Psalm 118; 1 John 5:1-6)
KEY VERSE: "Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed" (John 20:29).
TO KNOW: On the evening of the resurrection, the disciples were gathered in fear behind locked doors. They were overjoyed when the Risen Lord appeared in their midst with a greeting of "peace" (Hebrew, Shalom). Just as God breathed life into Adam, the first living being (see Gen 2:7), the Son of God breathed the life-giving Spirit upon his disciples, sending them forth with the power to forgive sins. Thomas (called Didymus, meaning “twin”) was absent on this occasion and he refused to believe their testimony. His defiant words "unless I see" (Jn 20:25) came from one who knew Jesus as an intimate friend. A week later, the Risen Christ appeared again, and this time Thomas was present. When Thomas touched Christ's wounds, he declared Jesus to be his "Lord and God." Jesus told Thomas that those who believed in faith were more blessed than those who needed visible proof.
TO LOVE: Am I Thomas’ twin? Do I refuse to believe unless I see?
TO SERVE: My Lord and my God, help me to believe when my faith wavers.
Sr. Faustina Kowalska, a Polish nun, was God’s instrument to proclaim Divine mercy toward every human being. Sr. Faustina was inspired by a vision in which Jesus told her that a painting should be made of his image with the invocation "Jesus, I trust in you." She commissioned the painting in 1935. Cardinal Karol Wojtyla, then Archbishop of Krakow (later St. Pope John Paul II), began Sr. Faustina's process of beatification. At her canonization in 2000, the first saint in the new millennium, the Pope designated the Second Sunday of Easter to be Divine Mercy Sunday. The Pope's final days coincided with the Church's preparation to celebrate the feast he described as flowing from Christ's "most profound mercy," which the Lord himself established. Speaking of St. Faustina and the importance of the message contained in her Diary, the Pope calls her "the great apostle of Divine Mercy in our time."
SOLEMNITY OF THE ANNUNCIATION OF THE LORD
MONDAY, APRIL 8, LUKE 1:26-38
(Isaiah 7:10-14; Psalm 24; Hebrews 10:4-10)
KEY VERSE: "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God" (Luke 1:30).
TO KNOW: After centuries of longing for the Messiah, the glorious announcement was made to a young woman who lived in Nazareth, an insignificant village in northern Israel. Her name was Mary (Hebrew: Miriam, the "exalted one"). As Mary pondered the joyful salutation, the angel Gabriel urged her to have no fear as she had found favor with God. The power of the Holy Spirit would conceive Mary's son. He would be the son of the Most High God, the Holy One, the everlasting King of all the earth who would rule eternally over the "house of Jacob" (v. 33) fulfilling the promises made to King David (2 Sam 7:16). Jesus' name (Hebrew: Yeshua, “Yahweh saves”) implied his mission: he would be the Savior of all people. Mary responded with faithful submission to the will of God. She was an example of those whom Jesus declared blessed because of purity of heart and desire to do what God required (Mt 5:3-10).
TO LOVE: What meaning do the names given to Jesus in the annunciation have for you?
TO SERVE: Mary of Nazareth, help me to obey God's will in all the decisions of my life.
MONDAY, APRIL 8, LUKE 1:26-38
(Isaiah 7:10-14; Psalm 24; Hebrews 10:4-10)
KEY VERSE: "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God" (Luke 1:30).
TO KNOW: After centuries of longing for the Messiah, the glorious announcement was made to a young woman who lived in Nazareth, an insignificant village in northern Israel. Her name was Mary (Hebrew: Miriam, the "exalted one"). As Mary pondered the joyful salutation, the angel Gabriel urged her to have no fear as she had found favor with God. The power of the Holy Spirit would conceive Mary's son. He would be the son of the Most High God, the Holy One, the everlasting King of all the earth who would rule eternally over the "house of Jacob" (v. 33) fulfilling the promises made to King David (2 Sam 7:16). Jesus' name (Hebrew: Yeshua, “Yahweh saves”) implied his mission: he would be the Savior of all people. Mary responded with faithful submission to the will of God. She was an example of those whom Jesus declared blessed because of purity of heart and desire to do what God required (Mt 5:3-10).
TO LOVE: What meaning do the names given to Jesus in the annunciation have for you?
TO SERVE: Mary of Nazareth, help me to obey God's will in all the decisions of my life.
TUESDAY, APRIL 9, JOHN 3:7b-15
Easter Weekday
(Acts 4:32-37; Psalm 93)
KEY VERSE: "Do not be amazed that I told you, `You must be born from above'" (John 3:7b).
TO KNOW: Nicodemus was a respected teacher in the Jewish community (v.10), but without the grace of the Spirit given in Baptism, he failed to fathom the mystery of spiritual rebirth. Jesus compared the dynamics of the Spirit with the mysterious movement of the wind. In both Hebrew and Greek, there is one word for both "wind" and "spirit" (Hebrew, ruah, Greek, pneuma). One can observe the effects of the wind without knowing its origin or destination. Likewise, although one can see the result of grace within an individual, no one is fully able to comprehend the action of the Spirit. Jesus was the authentic witness of these "heavenly things," which would be fully known when he was exalted on the cross (Jn 19:30).
TO LOVE: How can I help someone to be open to the Spirit in his or her life?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, breathe your life-giving Spirit into me.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 4:32-37; Psalm 93)
KEY VERSE: "Do not be amazed that I told you, `You must be born from above'" (John 3:7b).
TO KNOW: Nicodemus was a respected teacher in the Jewish community (v.10), but without the grace of the Spirit given in Baptism, he failed to fathom the mystery of spiritual rebirth. Jesus compared the dynamics of the Spirit with the mysterious movement of the wind. In both Hebrew and Greek, there is one word for both "wind" and "spirit" (Hebrew, ruah, Greek, pneuma). One can observe the effects of the wind without knowing its origin or destination. Likewise, although one can see the result of grace within an individual, no one is fully able to comprehend the action of the Spirit. Jesus was the authentic witness of these "heavenly things," which would be fully known when he was exalted on the cross (Jn 19:30).
TO LOVE: How can I help someone to be open to the Spirit in his or her life?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, breathe your life-giving Spirit into me.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10, JOHN 3:16-21
Easter Weekday
(Acts 5:17-26; Psalm 34)
KEY VERSE: "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life" (John 3:16).
TO KNOW: John 3:16 is often called the essence of the gospel. This text tells us that the Father sent the Son out of love for the world. Although there was judgment, there was mercy. God did not come to condemn the world but to save it (v.17). When the Pharisee Nicodemus came to Jesus at night, Jesus told him that God's love for the world was so great, that God sent the Son to save the world from sin and death. Everyone has the opportunity to respond to Jesus by acknowledging him as their Savior. Those who refuse to come into the light do so out of fear that their evil deeds might be exposed. God's verdict has already been pronounced upon those who "prefer darkness to light" (v.19). They bring condemnation upon themselves for their refusal to believe. But those who believe in God's Son should have no fear of the light. They have the indwelling Spirit to guide them so that their deeds will be done according to God's truth.
TO LOVE: Do I help to enlighten those who are in the darkness of unbelief?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, banish any darkness from my soul.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 5:17-26; Psalm 34)
KEY VERSE: "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life" (John 3:16).
TO KNOW: John 3:16 is often called the essence of the gospel. This text tells us that the Father sent the Son out of love for the world. Although there was judgment, there was mercy. God did not come to condemn the world but to save it (v.17). When the Pharisee Nicodemus came to Jesus at night, Jesus told him that God's love for the world was so great, that God sent the Son to save the world from sin and death. Everyone has the opportunity to respond to Jesus by acknowledging him as their Savior. Those who refuse to come into the light do so out of fear that their evil deeds might be exposed. God's verdict has already been pronounced upon those who "prefer darkness to light" (v.19). They bring condemnation upon themselves for their refusal to believe. But those who believe in God's Son should have no fear of the light. They have the indwelling Spirit to guide them so that their deeds will be done according to God's truth.
TO LOVE: Do I help to enlighten those who are in the darkness of unbelief?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, banish any darkness from my soul.
THURSDAY, APRIL 11, JOHN 3:31-36
Memorial of Saint Stanislaus, bishop and martyr
(Acts 5:27-33; Psalm 34)
KEY VERSE: "Whoever has accepted his testimony has certified this, that God is true" (John 3:33).
TO KNOW: The Gospel of John continually contrasts the radical difference between salvation in Christ and the workings of the Evil One. Jesus brought light into the world, while the Evil One brought darkness. Jesus’ followers believed in him, while the unbelievers refused to listen to his words. Jesus was the one from the heavenly world "above" whom God sent to the world "below" (this description is theological, not geographical). The Son shares the fullness of the Spirit with the Father, who withheld nothing from him. The Son in turn imparts the Spirit to his followers. Throughout salvation history, God gave partial revelation to God's people. God was fully revealed through the Son, who "spoke the words of God" (v.34). Whoever accepts this revelation receives eternal life; those who reject this gift bring God's judgment upon themselves.
TO LOVE: Do I give thanks for the divine gift of God's Son?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to listen to your words so that I might know how to act in truth.
Memorial of Saint Stanislaus, bishop and martyr
(Acts 5:27-33; Psalm 34)
KEY VERSE: "Whoever has accepted his testimony has certified this, that God is true" (John 3:33).
TO KNOW: The Gospel of John continually contrasts the radical difference between salvation in Christ and the workings of the Evil One. Jesus brought light into the world, while the Evil One brought darkness. Jesus’ followers believed in him, while the unbelievers refused to listen to his words. Jesus was the one from the heavenly world "above" whom God sent to the world "below" (this description is theological, not geographical). The Son shares the fullness of the Spirit with the Father, who withheld nothing from him. The Son in turn imparts the Spirit to his followers. Throughout salvation history, God gave partial revelation to God's people. God was fully revealed through the Son, who "spoke the words of God" (v.34). Whoever accepts this revelation receives eternal life; those who reject this gift bring God's judgment upon themselves.
TO LOVE: Do I give thanks for the divine gift of God's Son?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to listen to your words so that I might know how to act in truth.
Memorial of Saint Stanislaus, bishop and martyr
Stanislaus was born near Cracow, Poland, in 1030. In 1072, he was made the bishop of Cracow. (Many centuries later, before he became pope, John Paul II was also bishop of Cracow). Bishop Stanislaus won the love of all the people, especially for the way he cared for the poor, the widows and the orphans. Three times Poland's king, Boleslaus II, ordered his guards to kill Stanislaus but each time they failed. On April 11, 1079, the king himself rushed into the bishop's chapel and murdered Stanislaus as he was celebrating Mass. God worked many miracles after Stanislaus' death. He was proclaimed a saint by Pope Innocent IV in 1253.
Stanislaus was born near Cracow, Poland, in 1030. In 1072, he was made the bishop of Cracow. (Many centuries later, before he became pope, John Paul II was also bishop of Cracow). Bishop Stanislaus won the love of all the people, especially for the way he cared for the poor, the widows and the orphans. Three times Poland's king, Boleslaus II, ordered his guards to kill Stanislaus but each time they failed. On April 11, 1079, the king himself rushed into the bishop's chapel and murdered Stanislaus as he was celebrating Mass. God worked many miracles after Stanislaus' death. He was proclaimed a saint by Pope Innocent IV in 1253.
FRIDAY, APRIL 12, JOHN 6:1-15
Easter Weekday
(Acts 5:34-42; Psalm 27)
KEY VERSE: "Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed them to those who were reclining" (John 6:11).
TO KNOW: The feeding of the five thousand is the only miracle story mentioned in all four Gospels, which emphasizes its importance as foreshadowing the Eucharist. In John's gospel, the multiplication of loaves took place close to the Jewish feast of Passover, a memorial of Israel's deliverance from slavery in Egypt (Ex 12:14). In John's version of the multiplication of loaves, Jesus spoke about eating his flesh and drinking his blood (v.53). This is exactly what occurred at the Last Supper. The actions Jesus performed in the wilderness when he "took," "blessed," "broke," and "distributed" the bread, are the same actions the Priest does in the Eucharistic celebration today. The people of Jesus' day recognized the Messianic significance of this banquet and acclaimed that he was the "one who had come into the world" to bring salvation (v.15).
TO LOVE: Do I appreciate the mystery of Christ's sacrificial love in the Eucharist?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to grow in love and understanding of you in the Eucharist.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 5:34-42; Psalm 27)
KEY VERSE: "Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed them to those who were reclining" (John 6:11).
TO KNOW: The feeding of the five thousand is the only miracle story mentioned in all four Gospels, which emphasizes its importance as foreshadowing the Eucharist. In John's gospel, the multiplication of loaves took place close to the Jewish feast of Passover, a memorial of Israel's deliverance from slavery in Egypt (Ex 12:14). In John's version of the multiplication of loaves, Jesus spoke about eating his flesh and drinking his blood (v.53). This is exactly what occurred at the Last Supper. The actions Jesus performed in the wilderness when he "took," "blessed," "broke," and "distributed" the bread, are the same actions the Priest does in the Eucharistic celebration today. The people of Jesus' day recognized the Messianic significance of this banquet and acclaimed that he was the "one who had come into the world" to bring salvation (v.15).
TO LOVE: Do I appreciate the mystery of Christ's sacrificial love in the Eucharist?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to grow in love and understanding of you in the Eucharist.
SATURDAY, APRIL 13, JOHN 6:16-21
Easter Weekday
(Acts 6:1-7; Psalm 33)
KEY VERSE: "It is I. Do not be afraid" (John 6:20).
TO KNOW: After the miraculous multiplication of loaves in the wilderness, Jesus' disciples sailed to the village of Capernaum on the north shore of the Sea of Galilee (Lake Tiberius, named for the second Roman Empire). It was Passover time, the time of the full moon (Jn.6:4), and Jesus was upon the hillside praying. When a sudden storm came up threatening to capsize the small craft of his terrified disciples, Jesus appeared walking on the water toward them, calming them with his divine presence, and bringing them safely to shore. Just as the spirit of God hovered over the waters at the beginning of creation, so Jesus hovers over them now. Whether in hunger or distress, Jesus continues to be with his people to deliver them from all evil.
TO LOVE: How can I bring peace to someone fearful?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to know that you are with me in all the storms of my life.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 6:1-7; Psalm 33)
KEY VERSE: "It is I. Do not be afraid" (John 6:20).
TO KNOW: After the miraculous multiplication of loaves in the wilderness, Jesus' disciples sailed to the village of Capernaum on the north shore of the Sea of Galilee (Lake Tiberius, named for the second Roman Empire). It was Passover time, the time of the full moon (Jn.6:4), and Jesus was upon the hillside praying. When a sudden storm came up threatening to capsize the small craft of his terrified disciples, Jesus appeared walking on the water toward them, calming them with his divine presence, and bringing them safely to shore. Just as the spirit of God hovered over the waters at the beginning of creation, so Jesus hovers over them now. Whether in hunger or distress, Jesus continues to be with his people to deliver them from all evil.
TO LOVE: How can I bring peace to someone fearful?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to know that you are with me in all the storms of my life.
Optional Memorial of Saint Martin I, pope and martyr
Martin became Pope on July 5, 649 when there was great turmoil in the Church over the Monothelite heresy. Pope Martin convened a council of 105 bishops which condemned the heresy. The Emperor Constans responded by sending General Olympius to take the Pope in bonds to Constantinople. Olympius did not dare to touch the Pope himself, so he sent one of his men into the church with a sword to kill Martin. As the soldier entered the church, he was instantly blinded. The Emperor then sent General Theodore to do the job, under the pretense that Martin was in league with the godless Saracens and did not reverence the Mother of God. When he read the charges to the Pope, Martin refuted them as preposterous. Nevertheless, Theodore bound him and took him to Constantinople. The Pope was imprisoned there and ill-treated. Two years later, in 655, he died.
NOTE: The Monothelite heresy is the view that Jesus Christ has two natures but only one will. This is contrary to the Christology that Jesus Christ has two wills (human and divine) corresponding to his two natures. Formulated in 638, the heresy enjoyed considerable popularity, even garnering patriarchal support, before being rejected and denounced as heretical in 681 at the Third Council of Constantinople.
Martin became Pope on July 5, 649 when there was great turmoil in the Church over the Monothelite heresy. Pope Martin convened a council of 105 bishops which condemned the heresy. The Emperor Constans responded by sending General Olympius to take the Pope in bonds to Constantinople. Olympius did not dare to touch the Pope himself, so he sent one of his men into the church with a sword to kill Martin. As the soldier entered the church, he was instantly blinded. The Emperor then sent General Theodore to do the job, under the pretense that Martin was in league with the godless Saracens and did not reverence the Mother of God. When he read the charges to the Pope, Martin refuted them as preposterous. Nevertheless, Theodore bound him and took him to Constantinople. The Pope was imprisoned there and ill-treated. Two years later, in 655, he died.
NOTE: The Monothelite heresy is the view that Jesus Christ has two natures but only one will. This is contrary to the Christology that Jesus Christ has two wills (human and divine) corresponding to his two natures. Formulated in 638, the heresy enjoyed considerable popularity, even garnering patriarchal support, before being rejected and denounced as heretical in 681 at the Third Council of Constantinople.
THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER
SUNDAY, APRIL 14, LUKE 24:35-48
(Acts 3:13-15,17-19; Psalm 24; 1 John 2:1-5a)
KEY VERSE: "Thus it was written that the Messiah would suffer and rise from the dead on the third day" (Luke 24:46).
TO KNOW: The disciples of Emmaus returned to Jerusalem and reported to the eleven apostles that they had witnessed the Risen Christ. The Apostles in turn exclaimed that Christ had also appeared to Simon Peter. While they were still speaking, Christ appeared in their midst and proclaimed "Peace" to them (v. 36). He assured the terrified disciples that he was not a ghost. When he invited them to touch him and asked for food, the disciples were overjoyed. Again, Jesus explained everything that had been written about him in the "Law of Moses and in the prophets and psalms" (v. 44). These three divisions of the Hebrew Scriptures are the law "Torah," the Prophets "Nebi'im," and the Writings "Kethubim" (acronym: "TaNaK"). Then Jesus commissioned his disciples to preach the message of salvation in his name: "repentance for the forgiveness of sins, beginning from Jerusalem" (v. 47).
TO LOVE: Do I see Christ in the hungry and wounded around me?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to be a faithful witness to you.
SUNDAY, APRIL 14, LUKE 24:35-48
(Acts 3:13-15,17-19; Psalm 24; 1 John 2:1-5a)
KEY VERSE: "Thus it was written that the Messiah would suffer and rise from the dead on the third day" (Luke 24:46).
TO KNOW: The disciples of Emmaus returned to Jerusalem and reported to the eleven apostles that they had witnessed the Risen Christ. The Apostles in turn exclaimed that Christ had also appeared to Simon Peter. While they were still speaking, Christ appeared in their midst and proclaimed "Peace" to them (v. 36). He assured the terrified disciples that he was not a ghost. When he invited them to touch him and asked for food, the disciples were overjoyed. Again, Jesus explained everything that had been written about him in the "Law of Moses and in the prophets and psalms" (v. 44). These three divisions of the Hebrew Scriptures are the law "Torah," the Prophets "Nebi'im," and the Writings "Kethubim" (acronym: "TaNaK"). Then Jesus commissioned his disciples to preach the message of salvation in his name: "repentance for the forgiveness of sins, beginning from Jerusalem" (v. 47).
TO LOVE: Do I see Christ in the hungry and wounded around me?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to be a faithful witness to you.