This coming Sunday, the Second Sunday of Easter, was designated by the late John Paul II as Sunday of Divine Mercy. In the Gospel for this Sunday, we hear the story of how Thomas, one of the Twelve, was not with them when Jesus first appeared to them. Thomas indicates he will not believe this unless he can see and touch the wounds of Jesus. When Jesus appears again, this time with Thomas present, Jesus invites him to do just that. Upon seeing Jesus, the Gospel of John records Thomas as responding, “My Lord, and my God.” It makes no mention as to whether Thomas is so bold as to actually try to touch the wounds of Jesus. (I tend to think not.) Jesus then has a powerful, yet gentle response to Thomas. He doesn’t accuse or condemn, but in his mercy poses a question which will force Thomas to reflect on and evaluate the strength of his relationship with Christ. “Have you come to believe because you have seen me?”
This story each year affords us the chance to engage in more serious reflection. The question becomes not, “Do I need to touch Jesus?” Rather, the focus changes to, “Have I let Jesus touch me? How have I allowed grace to act in my life that I may consciously act out that belief?”
This weekend, too, the church offers us two popes as examples of the light, hope, and mercy of our faith. John XXIII and John Paul II will both be canonized. Both opened themselves to God’s touch. John XXIII, simple man with a sense of humor and who cared deeply for people, allowed himself to be guided by the Holy Spirit, and convoked the Second Vatican Council, which in turn provided the church the opportunity to reevaluate how to carry out its mission. John Paul II became the great missionary of the church, carrying the Gospel to all corners of the earth through his travels and preaching. Without a doubt, it is in attempting to follow their example that we will come to know truly the mercy of God and His peace.
Jim Gase
Development and Social Ministries
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