2nd Sunday of Easter – Divine Mercy Sunday
Pope Francis gave us the image of a field hospital to describe the Church. On this Divine Mercy Sunday, the image speaks of our mission to bring mercy to the wounded by our forgiveness and healing.
Jesus shows us Divine Mercy in the Upper Room as he encounters his disciples. His greeting to them: My peace I give to you forgives them for their lack of fidelity in abandoning him. He heals their broken hearts and once again leads them into his mission of bringing care and forgiveness to others.
The Church as a field hospital today encourages us to look at our world with eyes of compassion for the many wounded by war, by division, by betrayal, by being kept outside of our communities and our generosity, and in so many other ways that rob members of our human family of their basic need for security and hope. We are called to forgive and to heal! We are called to bring Divine Mercy into our world.
It is easy to become overwhelmed by the immensity of the task. We have lived so long in a world that has not been at peace, in a society that allows—even encourages—labeling people acceptable or not, and we have difficulty imagining a society where the wounded are healed and cared for. We are challenged to believe that new life is possible. The words of Jesus echo in our hearts blest are they who have not seen and have believed.
The early Christian community believed. Acts presents Peter healing others. John’s vision presents the message of be not afraid. Do we hear be not afraid?
In the Eucharist, we receive Divine Mercy. We are forgiven, healed, and nourished with the Risen Christ and then sent to bring mercy, healing, and care to others.
Who will know God’s mercy through me?
Let Us Pray:
Lord of mercy, as we continue to sing our Easter alleluias, we praise and thank you for your continual mercy, which brings us forgiveness and healing. We pray that those suffering from war and displacement may find mercy through the loving care of others. May your Spirit enable us to reach out to those who cry for mercy. Amen
