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April 24, 2022After the Resurrection of Jesus, his disciples were together in a house behind closed doors because they had great fear of the authorities. To their surprise, the Risen Lord comes in … unexpectedly and unannounced.
In many parts of our world, Christians cannot freely gather for prayer or liturgical celebrations as we do so freely in churches with doors unlocked. Risks of persecution, jail time or even death are among the reasons why liturgies are celebrated in private homes behind closed doors in regions where persecutions are ongoing. For persecuted believers, exchanging the sign of peace, inspired by Jesus’ words, Peace be with you, is more than symbolic. They pray and hope for an end to persecutions. And until the environment becomes less hostile, they yearn for safety, for peace of mind and heart. True peace can only come from Jesus who suffered, died for us, and rose from the dead.
Can we imagine the effects of Jesus’ words, Peace be with you, on his first disciples? Seeing and hearing their beloved Lord and Master, the disciples realized that He is risen and still loves them. Their sadness and confusion gradually disappeared.
With the psalmist, we give thanks to the Lord whose mercy endures forever. Let us pray for persecuted, doubtful, newly initiated Christians, their sponsors and for each other to experience divine mercy and true peace.
Lord, have mercy on us and on the whole word!
Have a blessed Easter!
