April 19, 2020 SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER (DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY) –A

Acts of the Apostles: 2,42-47

Psalm 118

St. Peter 1:3-9

John 20:19-31

This is the day the Lord has made; let us be glad and rejoice in it.  Psalm 118:24

Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.”  John 20:29

Jesus, you loved Thomas and likely knew why he was not with the other Apostles on Easter night. We can only guess.  The reason is not important for he came a week later and you met him by giving him and the others the Holy Spirit and your blessing and greeting of peace. Then you gave him the best gift of all-faith. You met him where he was in his doubts. You then offered him the proof he asked for your nail marks and your wounded side. Thomas’ life was transformed at that moment and he would go on to be “Believing Thomas” and no longer Doubting Thomas. He would evangelize many and go all the way to India to proclaim your resurrection, love and Divine Mercy. And there he would die for you. Lord, please forgive our doubts especially at this time of suffering and death from the virus. This is the day we rejoice and are glad because of your Divine Mercy that replaces our doubts with faith and healing. May your mercy be on all those who will die today and this coming week. I pray for all the healthcare workers and their families who are in need of your never ending mercy. Meet us where we are so that not having seen you physically we may believe.  Amen Alleluia