Homily Sixth Monday of Easter (John 15:26-16:4a) “A Second Chance”
Homily Sixth Monday of Easter (John 15:26-16:4a) “A Second Chance”
Tradition has it that Jesus spent 40 days after his resurrection with his disciples. The way scripture reads, we could put the time Jesus spent with his followers anywhere from 1 day to 40 days. Whatever the time we must wonder what Jesus’ final instructions were.
The apostles had three years to be taught by Jesus before he ever died. Yet, when he was crucified, they seemed confused about what to do and where to go. What exactly happened between Jesus’ resurrection and the birth of the church?
It would be impossible for Jesus to complete his instruction of the Apostles in a few short days. In fact, it would be hard to think that anyone could ever be a fully trained apostle. What Jesus did instill in his Apostles was new confidence. Where did that come from?
We might try to imagine the mindset of the Apostles. They had failed Jesus in his hour of need. Whenever we disappoint another person through some poor choices on our part, we probably feel like they are going to write us off. Whenever someone betrays our trust, don’t we feel like we don’t want anything to do with them anymore?
Jesus’ disciples must have been delighted that Jesus came to them after the resurrection and said to them by his words and actions, “I still believe in you. I think that you can undertake the mission I trained you for.”
The apostles regained their lost confidence. The disciples began to believe in themselves and their own abilities. Once the Holy Spirit came to them, they were ready for their mission to go out and spread the good news.
Reflection Questions:
1. Have I every let anybody down and had that person forgive me and express confidence in me? How did that feel to me? Was I ready to give twice as much effort when I was given a second chance?
2. Do I have to feel one hundred percent sure when I am asked to undertake a great work? Is being completely sure of myself ever a possibility?
Dear Parishioners,
The time when we will be worshipping in groups is coming closer. This will happen with a lot of restrictions. During the upcoming week, the parish staff will be getting more information about the different tasks that will be necessary in order that we may worship safely in groups of ten. This will be only for certain sacramental celebrations like baptisms and funerals. Daily Masses and Sunday Masses are still closed to the public.
I have been hesitant to share all information we have received with you. Church leadership and governmental leadership have changed their minds a number of times on different issues. Sometimes it takes a few days for leadership to head in a clear direction. I don’t want to announce some activity and then have to change things again before we even get started, so I have tried to be cautious.
I am sorry about not being able to share communion with people after Mass Sunday, but since we had to be outside the church it was not possible. The rain just did not let up. Let’s pray that things become easier.
May Our Lady and all the Angels and Saints watch over you today.
Fr Mark