“You believe because you can see me. Happy are those who have not seen and yet believe.” (John 20:29)

In the Gospel reading for this Sunday we hear that Jesus appeared among his disciples who were hiding behind closed doors for fear of the Jews who had arranged for Jesus to be crucified.

“Peace be with you,” Jesus says and shows them the marks of his crucifixion, his hands and his side.

Jesus is truly risen from the dead and the apostles are filled with joy.

Jesus tells them he is sending them out. He breaths on them and they receive the Holy Spirit. The apostles are to continue his mission and are given the power to forgive sins.

Thomas was not there and when he learns of this doesn’t believe it. After eight days Jesus again appears with the greeting, “Peace be with you.” Jesus invites Thomas to touch his wounds but he declines. He now knows for himself and says, “My Lord and my God.”

Jesus appears several times after rising from the dead according to all four gospels.

This overwhelming evidence is a challenge for everyone. What does this mean for me and my life?

Perhaps there are some who cannot forgive themselves. The Pope and Bishops are successors of the apostles and they, along with priests, have the authority to forgive sins in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Once Absolution has been granted following a sincere confession and intention to change for the better with God’s help, how can anyone not forgive themselves?

“It was very early on the first day of the week and still dark, when Mary of Magdala came to the tomb.” (John 20:1)

We see Mary of Magdala, one of Jesus’ women disciples, coming early in the morning to the tomb where Jesus had been buried. She sees straight away that the stone has been moved. She runs to Peter and “the disciple Jesus loved” (John), to tell them. They run as fast as they can to tomb to see for themselves. Peter goes in first and John soon after. They notice the linen cloths on the ground that had been over Jesus’ head rolled up nearby.  

The resurrection of Jesus is the most amazing and significant of the gospel happenings. To live forever is the most wonderful thing. Because of Jesus’ Death for us on the cross, new life with God in heaven is available for all. St Paul says in 1 Corinthians 15:52 “the dead will be raised, imperishable.”  No wonder Sunday is the Lord’s Day when we celebrate the Eucharist.