Every wound can be healed if it is opened up to the healing power of Love.

(John 20:19-31)

This Sunday marks a very special day in the life of the Catholic Church; we celebrate Divine Mercy Sunday and the beatification of John Paul II in St. Peter’s Square, Rome.  The message of Divine Mercy is one of Trust, to trust in the merciful love of Jesus and this message ties in with a constant theme of John Paul II’s pontificate: “Do not be afraid. Open wide the doors for Christ”.

The disciples in the Gospel this Sunday were living in fear of the Jews, when Jesus comes among them to take away their fear and strengthen their faith in Him, with a simple message of peace. When Jesus appeared to them he offered proofs of his resurrection by showing them the wounds of his passion, his pierced hands and side.  He calmed their fears and brought them peace, the peace which reconciles sinners and makes one a friend of God.  Jesus did something which only love and trust and can do.  He commissioned his weak and timid apostles to carry the gospel to the ends of the earth.

In our weakness and sinfulness the Lord can use us powerfully to witness to the joy of the resurrection. Just as he gave his first disciples the gift of the Holy Spirit, so he breathes on us the same Holy Spirit who equips us with power, grace, and strength to proclaim his word. Allow the Lord to touch your wounds, to increase your faith in him. The Lord offers each of us new life in his Holy Spirit that we may know him personally and walk in this new way of life through the power of his resurrection. All he asks of you is not to be afraid and to place your Trust in Him.

Fr. Emmet O’Hara SCA