The disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you.” John 20:20-21
Even though Jesus’ disciples had been with him for several years and had seen his miracles, they were slow to grasp the meaning of his message. And yet, when Jesus appeared to them after his resurrection, there were no words of rebuke, only words of peace that revealed his love. Unchanging love was Jesus’ gift to his disciples. That is the same gift he gives to us. Our hope comes from his steadfast love, because he always floods our hearts with it even when we fail him. What peace is ours when we recognize this tremendous truth.
Our peace grows when we share this love with others. Jesus asks us to follow him, but we can only be his followers when we do what he does. No easy task, you might say, but the power of Jesus constantly flows through us, enabling us to love as he loves. That’s what transforms our lives and gives us hope.
Originally published April 23, 2017
Second Sunday of Easter (Divine Mercy Sunday)
