Greetings on this the Monday in the Octave of Easter
Readings: Acts 2:14, 22-33; Psalm 16:1-2a and 5, 7-8, 9-10, 11; Victimae paschali laudes; Matthew 28:8-15
Summary
Weep not for Francis, but for the world that loses him. The voice of the poor has died. Let us be His successors. -- Llora no por Francisco, sino por le mundo que lo pierde. La voz de los pobres ha muerto. Seamos sus sucesores.
- Fr Frank O’Loughlin on the occasion of the death of Pope Francis
The Two Distinct Responses
The Resurrection of Jesus.
Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went away quickly from the tomb, fearful yet overjoyed, and ran to announce the news to his disciples. And behold, Jesus met them on their way and greeted them. They approached, embraced his feet, and did him homage. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.” (MT 28:8-10).
The Report of the Guard.
While they were going, some of the guard went into the city and told the [leadership] all that had happened. The [leadership] assembled with the elders and took counsel; then they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers, telling them, “You are to say, ‘His disciples came by night and stole him while we were asleep.’ And if this gets to the ears of the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” The soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story has circulated among the [people] to the present day (MT 28:11-15).
Reflection
Death and life have contended in that combat stupendous: The Prince of life, who died, reigns immortal (Victimae paschali laudes).
Personal Reflection
Christ has died.
Christ is risen.
Christ will come again.
Tumultuous times! Pope Francis was a life-giving gift form the Lord. Now the see planted will yield growth and fruits of the Spirit.
In regards to Pope Francis and his pontificate:
The less we prayed,
the more we were confused.
The less we fasted,
the more enraged we became.
The less we had compassion,
the more we became dogmatic.
Sacred Readings Full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/042125.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry