Why are you surprised? This question is asked in both readings today.

During this Easter octave, the gospel presents us with scene after scene where all were surprised: disciples, Roman officials, Jewish leaders, and visitors in Jerusalem. In the first reading from the Acts of the Apostles, we hear Peter proclaim the power of Jesus’ name. He reminds his hearers of their failure to recognize the Lord as Messiah; worse yet, he reminds them of their choice to have him crucified. It was in the power of this same name that Peter had healed the lame man. He challenged his hearers, why are you surprised at the power of Jesus’ name?

In the Gospel, Jesus appeared to the eleven disciples. His message is stunning. He offered peace to his friends who had deserted him. To their unbelieving eyes, he assured them that it was really himself in the flesh. He invited them to look at his hands, touch him, and eat with him. He missioned them to be his witnesses. He also asked:

Why are you surprised? I told you it would be so.

Moses and the prophets prophesied that the Messiah would suffer and rise again! We who now benefit from 2000 years of hindsight, are we not also sometimes surprised by the power of Jesus’ name, by the reality of his presence, the invitation to eat with him, to assimilate his life within us, to suffer with him, for him? He says, “Why are you surprised?”

Let Us Pray:

Jesus, you offer peace to our world—the peace of knowing you are with us at all times—the peace of understanding the deeper meaning of the Paschal Mystery—the meaning of your life and death. You invite us to contemplate your hands and feet, touch and know you. Like Saint Peter Julian, give us a profound faith in your eucharistic presence and help us recognize the depth of your love.