Sunday | April 17, 2022
John 20:1-9:
Mary Magdalene arrives at the tomb only to find it empty. She goes to tell Peter and John who follow her back to the tomb. Though John arrives first, he lets Peter enter before him. Both Mary and Peter do not seem to understand. It is John, the beloved disciple, who sees and believes.
All these centuries later, there is such a feeling of peace on this Easter day. I am thankful for having a glimpse of the glory and look forward to that and more in eternity.
Saturday | April 16, 2022
Luke 24:1-12:
We recount our faith story in the readings, our spiritual roots, and the Easter story of the first Christians. In Luke’s account, the women are the first to witness but are not believed by the other disciples except for Peter who goes to the tomb. Luke tells us Peter is amazed at what he sees or does not see.
God how blessed we are. You have been with us throughout history. You remain with us through the stories of our lives.
Friday | April 15, 2022
John 18:1-19:42:
John’s Gospel details the passion and death of Jesus Christ. It begins with Judas’ betrayal and concludes with Jesus’ death and burial. It is proclaimed every year on Good Friday and followed rightly with the veneration of the cross.
The words of that beautiful hymn often sung during the veneration play in my head, “Were you there?” I was not but, on this night, I feel like I am, and I weep.
Thursday | April 14, 2022
John 13:1-15:
The sacred Paschal Triduum begins tonight. Though it is the commemoration of the institution of the Eucharist, John’s Gospel points to the very heart of discipleship. Jesus, the master, the teacher, in humble service washes his disciple’s feet and instructs them to do the same for one another.
I am thankful for receiving what you have handed on to me through your disciples. I pray this day to be ever mindful of living in humble service.
Wednesday | April 13, 2022
Matthew 26:14-25:
The plan is in place as Judas watches and waits for the right moment. The disciples are distressed by Jesus’ statement about betrayal. Perhaps Judas thinks he feigns innocence well but Jesus, very much in charge of the situation, knows exactly who his betrayer is.
Betrayal seemed to come so easily to Judas and yet in the end he was filled with despair. I pray for all those tempted to choose that path. May they be open to your healing love and mercy.
Tuesday | April 12, 2022
John 13:21-33, 36-38:
Jesus acknowledges Judas’s guilt. Judas leaves and thus sets the night into motion. Jesus tells the remaining apostles that he will soon leave, and they cannot go with him. Peter wants to know where Jesus is going and in the same breath passionately professes his love and fidelity. Jesus tells Peter that by early morning he too will betray him by denying that he knows Jesus, not once, but three times.
Judas and Peter gave in to their weakness. There are times when I have done the same. Thank you for not only giving me the grace to turn back to you but for welcoming me with open arms.
Monday | April 11, 2022
John 12:1-11:
Jesus is with his friends. Martha serves the meal and Mary anoints Jesus’ feet. Lazarus’s presence is proof of Jesus’ living word. It is Judas who calls attention to himself by criticizing Mary’s use of the oil. His reasoning makes little sense because he cares nothing for the poor. Friendship, fidelity, hypocrisy, and betrayal are all part of the movement toward Jesus’ passion and death.
We continue to pray for the elect, the candidates and all who journey together through this, the holiest week of the year.
Sunday | April 10, 2022
Luke 19:28-40,22:14-23:56:
The assembly processes with blessed palms elevated, heralding Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. “When the hour came,” the words that begin Luke’s Passion narrative draw the listeners into the dramatic unfolding of God’s plan. Through tremendous suffering and a humiliating death, Jesus, the Messiah is glorified.
We process, with palms elevated, shouting Hosanna. It is our attempt to enter that moment in time. We hear your passion proclaimed for the first time this week. How blessed are we to know the rest of your story, our story.
Saturday | April 9, 2022
John 11:45-56:
There are those witnesses of the miracle of Lazarus brought back from death who came to believe in Jesus. Then there are those who use Jesus’ action to destroy him. The Jewish leaders gather. It is the high priest Caiaphas who influences their decision as to how to proceed. Jesus is a threat and so better to sacrifice him than their nation.
There are those who unite and there are those who divide. Strengthen your people. Bring us together in your name.
Friday | April 8, 2022
John 10:31-42:
The people are unable to accept anything Jesus says about his relationship to the Father. Because they believe his words to be blasphemy, the good works Jesus has done count for nothing. He returns to the place where his ministry began. The people make the connection between John and Jesus and with that, they come to believe in him.
I pray this day for those who do not believe. Holy Spirit, touch their hearts, open their eyes, draw them to the truth.
