Newton Basumatari csc –
Readings: Acts 3: 13 -15, 17-19; 1Jn 2:1-5a; Lk 24:35- 48
We are in the third Sunday of Easter season, and the liturgy of the word invites us to reflect on the importance of recognizing Jesus in our midst.
We know from Dei Verbum, Vatican II Document, that God is manifested not only through sacred scriptures but also in nature and through the person of Jesus Christ, the word made flesh. But we can be in a state of ignorance just like the disciples failed to recognize Jesus despite being with him.
Jesus’ appearance to his disciples strengthened their faith as well as that of all humanity, and their eyes were open to understand the scriptures. And Jesus invites them to help one another and recognize him in everyone and everything. One of the obstacles coming in the way of recognising Jesus’ presence among us is an unforgiving heart. He told them that they must forgive as he has forgiven those who had persecuted him. Today, Jesus continues to reveal himself to us in different ways and forms.
Through the scriptures and through the celebration of the Eucharist, or through various events or meeting people in our everyday life, he reveals himself to us. Yet sometimes, we can be ignorant about it. Therefore, we need to ask God to fill us with his spirit so that our eyes of faith may be opened to recognize him in everything and every event. For that, we need first to allow him to dwell in our hearts.