The Power of Faith!

On Easter Sunday several people from our parish were gathered together chatting with our pastor about spring break. He said, "Every day should be a vacation." Almost everyone in the group looked very startled. A few exchanged confused glances, a few others murmured something unintelligible. Nevertheless, our readings this Sunday tell us exactly the same thing. We may not have seen Jesus walking on this earth, but our faith allows us to rejoice each and every day, despite trials or tribulations that may fall into our path. Our precious faith leads us to salvation. 

The first reading is from the Acts of the Apostles. Following Christ's ascension and the descent of the Holy Spirit, the followers of Christ lived ideal Christian lives. They lived according to the four great principles: 1) following apostolic teaching, 2) breaking bread, 3) praying together, and 4) living as a community. It has been imperative for the Christian community to follow the apostolic teachings since Jesus is no longer physically present. Heretics would always try to pull the community apart. Only perseverance in following the instructions of the apostles, the men Jesus, Himself chose, can prevent Christians from getting caught up in false teachings. Living as faithful people, praying together, and sharing the Eucharist supports the faithful in their perseverance.

The letter from Peter has two distinct parts. The first section is probably an early Christian hymn or part of a baptismal liturgy. The second part is an explanation of the meaning of that hymn. Peter emphasizes the fact that from now on the people will need to depend on their faith, because Jesus cannot be seen in person. Faith is more precious than gold, especially during the trials  and sufferings of this world.

The Gospel from John records two incidents. The first is often overshadowed by the second, but listen carefully! Jesus appears to the disciples and breathes on them. The other time God breathed on man was during Creation; this time God breathes on the apostles and gives them the power to forgive sins. This is the institution of our Sacrament of Reconciliation. Obviously, it is as important as life itself.

The second incident involves Thomas, the Apostle who should give us all hope. He does not see the risen Christ, and doubts his friends who claim they have seen Him. Despite his doubts, when he finally witnesses Christ he utters the irrevocable words of faith: "My Lord and my God!" Many of us have gone through periods of lack of faith. Thomas shows us when we finally open our eyes to the truth our lives are forever changed.