St. Mary's Catholic Church of Tomahawk, WI

Dear Brothers and Sisters:

We are in the third week of Easter. In the first reading we hear about the first speech of St. Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit after Pentecost, addressing a large crowd gathered in Jerusalem. In quoting David’s words from Psalm 16, he is emphasizing that Jesus, the Risen Lord, is the fulfilment of that prophecy. David did not speak those words about himself; it is known that he is dead and where he is buried. All who believe in Christ Jesus will also not see corruption. We are called to be witnesses. How do we wish to be a witness to Jesus?

The second reading tells us about the living hope of our salvation and what it means to live out this hope in our daily lives. St. Peter brings two distinct realities. First, that our actions should reflect the magnitude of God’s great mercy. Second, emphasizing the reality of our heavenly home, that this earthly existence is not our final destination and to bring others to God’s presence. How do we try to help others in bringing them to God?

The Gospel tells us about the story of two disciples encountering the Risen Lord on their way to Emmaus. On their way, first they have the scriptural encounter where they expressed their hope that Jesus would be the one to redeem Israel. Secondly, they experienced the Eucharistic encounter with the Risen Lord where the hidden identity was disclosed, and their eyes of faith were opened. What a rich encounter that is for every one of us when we meet our Risen Lord in Word and in Sacrament in our daily living!

Fr. Aloysius Royan Anthony