April 14, 2024
3rd Sunday
Easter
FOCUS: We look forward to the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come.
Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s promises of salvation, and he has come to save us – body and soul. Our physical and spiritual realities are infused with one another, integrated within our creation as Imago Dei – made in the image of God. Christ was raised, body and soul, by the Father, and his glorified body was seen by the Apostles and many others. Through him we will be reunited to God, our Father and Creator, on the last day. As we profess in our creed, we look forward to the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come.
What's in Your Heart
Today's readings outline the ways to know and love God and become witnesses of the Lord's saving truth.
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Acknowledging one's sins is the first step to repentence and conversion. What have I done and failed to do that require God's forgiveness?
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What commandments do I struggle keeping? Do I remember to turn to the Spirit to strengthen my resolve?
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When questions arise that trouble me, where do I turn for help?
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Christians are called to preach the truth of the life, death, and Resurrection of Christ and the forgiveness of sins. How well do I do this?
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When have I experienced forgiveness in my life? How can this experience help me bring the message of repentance and forgiveness to others?
Homily Stories
George was an avowed atheist and loved challenging believers.
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“So, Tom, you are a Christian,” George confronted his friend Tom. “You must know a lot about this Christ person.”
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“I know a bit.”
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“So, do you know what year he was born?”
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“No.”
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“Do you know how many miracles he performed?”
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“No.”
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“And . . . have you read the Bible?”
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“Not much.”
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“Do you know the history of the church?”
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“Not really.”
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“Do you know anything about the saints?”
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Tom, looking down, just shook his head.
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George was on a roll: “Do you know Jesus’ last name?”
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Tom, looking defeated, quietly replied, “No.”
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“So,” George concluded, smugly, “you don’t know this Christ very well. How can you say that you are a Christian?”
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“George,” Tom replied after a moment, “two years ago I was an alcoholic in over $100,000 in debt and Jenn was about to leave me. Today, I am sober, have no debt, and Jenn and I are more in love than ever. I thank Jesus for helping me turn my life around. I may not know a lot about Him, but I know Him.
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Then Tom added, looking at George, “I guess I could learn more things about Him. Wanna join me?”
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First Reading
Second Reading
Gospel
Video Reflection
Quotes
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I wish not merely to be called Christian, but also to be Christian.
—Saint Ignatius
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Ignorance of scripture is ignorance of Christ!
—Saint Jerome
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There is always more work to be done on this side of heaven.
—Father Josh Johnson