Divine Mercy Sunday
Acts 4:32-35, 1 John 5:1-6, John 20:19-31

On this 2nd Sunday of Easter, we are reminded of the transformative power of the risen Jesus. In the presence of Christ, fear dissipates, and peace envelops his disciples. It sinks in that the mercy of God as it is said is incomprehensive even to the Angels as they remain amazed by it. The mercy of God, perfected on the Cross of Calvary, is symbolized in the divine mercy picture with rays of blue and red, representing the water and blood that flowed from Christ's side. It serves as the antidote for all humanity's sins, as Scripture tells us that where sin increases, grace abounds even more.

Today's feast invites us to embrace God's mercy and become channels of it to others. Our world desperately needs the truth and mercy of God, which we can share through acts of empathy, forgiveness, and generosity, just as the early believers did. In the Gospel, we see the first disciples, dispirited and fearful after Jesus’ death, locked away in a room. Jesus appears among them, offering peace and breathing the Holy Spirit upon them. He reconciles them to Himself, filling their hearts with joy. Likewise, we find joy in knowing that God's mercy endures, especially when we seek His face in our daily lives.

While the sacrament of reconciliation is a privileged moment of forgiveness, we encounter other opportunities daily: forgiving others, offering apologies, and accepting apologies graciously. In these moments, Jesus stands among us, granting us peace and freeing us from draining situations. Like Thomas in today's Gospel, we may struggle, but Jesus patiently reminds us of His teachings and calls us to be merciful, forgiving, and loving, just as our heavenly Father is.

Our faith in God's mercy and love is a gift from the Holy Spirit. With this faith, we can overcome doubt and obstacles, find peace, and become instruments of God's mercy in the world. Whoever is begotten by God conquers the world. Let us support and encourage one another, forgiving and being patient, knowing that together with God, we can overcome fears and spread His peace.

Fr. Ikenna