Eastertide Day 5 Thursday April 24 2025
Luke 34: 35-48 Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread.
36 While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.”
37 They were startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost. 38 He said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts rise in your minds? 39 Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have.”
40 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and feet. 41 And while they still did not believe it because of joy and amazement, he asked them, “Do you have anything here to eat?” 42 They gave him a piece of broiled fish, 43 and he took it and ate it in their presence.
44 He said to them, “This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.”
45 Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. 46 He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things.
On this fifth day of the Easter Octave, we reflect on the joyous reality of the Resurrection. Jesus appears to His disciples, offering them peace and opening their minds to understand the Scriptures. In this encounter, He reminds them of their mission: to proclaim repentance and forgiveness in His name to all nations. As we journey through Easter, we too are called to be witnesses of His love, mercy, and resurrection power. Let us allow Jesus to open our minds and hearts, transforming us into bold ambassadors of His Gospel.
Prayer: Risen Lord, You appeared to Your disciples, offering peace and clarity in their confusion. Open our minds to Your Word and fill our hearts with the joy of Your resurrection. Strengthen us to be witnesses of Your love and truth in our daily lives. May Your Spirit guide us to proclaim Your name to all, spreading the message of forgiveness and hope. Help us to live as Easter people, fully alive in Your victory over death.
Amen.