Eastertide

04-25-2020Weekly ReflectionFr. James Aboyi

Dear Friends,

Welcome to the Eastertide! The word “Easter” is derived from the English word, “East,” which traditionally symbolizes the direction of the rising sun. The rising sun is a symbol of hope because it brings the light of the new day and warmth after the darkness of the night. These images are used in the Catholic tradition as symbols of the Risen Christ, who is the true Light of the World. The Eastertide refers to the 50 days from Easter Sunday to Pentecost Sunday. All of the Sundays within the Eastertide are considered Sundays of Easter; hence, we have the first through the seventh Sunday of Easter, and then conclude with Pentecost Sunday.

The story of the disciples on their journey from Jerusalem to Emmaus is a reminder that Eastertide is a journey. It is a journey with the Risen Christ for 50 days from Easter to the coming of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost. The experience of the disciples on the way to Emmaus is also a reminder that we all carry along our fear of the unknown future, our worries and doubts as we walk with Jesus. The story gives us hope that Jesus is always walking along with us, even when we cannot recognize him. He calms our fears, opens our minds and hearts to grow in our understanding of the Scriptures and our relationship with God. At the end of the journey, Jesus revealed himself to the disciples. They recognized him when they saw the marks of the nails in his hands at the Breaking of the Bread. May we, like these disciples, welcome Jesus in everyone around us, even in the strangers. May we be open to share our fears and worries with him; may we listen to his voice speaking within our hearts; and may we recognize him, especially when we receive him in the Eucharist.

Thank you and remain blessed,

Fr. James

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