Reading: Acts 10:40-43
God raised Jesus from death on the third day and caused him to appear. He was not seen by all the people, but only by us who are the witnesses that God had already chosen. We ate and drank with him after God raised him from death. And he commanded us to preach the Gospel to the people and to testify that he is the one whom God has appointed Judge of the living and the dead. All the prophets spoke about him, saying that everyone who believes in him will have his sins forgiven through the power of his name.
Reflection
This scripture passage is prayed in the Morning Prayer of the Divine Office on the six Sundays of Eastertide. Here we read where Jesus appeared to those whom God had chosen and they celebrated his resurrection by partaking in a divine banquet with him. Strengthened by the Eucharist, they were sent on mission to preach the Gospel to all the nations of the world.
During this Easter season, children all over the world and those who have been received into the family of the church at Eastertime, celebrate their First Holy Communion. It is a time of rejoicing for them and their parish communities. The same invitation that was extended to the first disciples is offered to them. These little ones who have now eaten and drunk with him are asked to be his light bearers to the ends of the earth.They are assured of the prayer of the community and encouraged to pray daily and return regularly to the celebration of the Eucharist. Fortified by this spiritual food, these little ones to whom Jesus has entrusted the kingdom of God (Matthew 19:14) will draw many to the heart of God. Let us support and encourage them on their faith journey. Let us pray also for children and all across the world who because of war, poverty or political oppresson are unable to safely participate in the Eucharist. May the know the comfort of Christ with them. May the Christian community pray and do all that is necessary to alleviate this suffering.
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