Lectionary: 266He said to them, “Go into the whole world
and proclaim the Gospel to every creature.”
During the Octave of Easter we hear all of the gospel passages about Jesus's resurrection appearances and his sending the disciples from Jerusalem to all the nations.
There aren't many; just enough among the four gospels to cover eight days. They don't make a consistent narrative. Some repeat others, often with differing details that make us wonder if they're the same or not. I'm sure we'd like a lot more details about his appearance, his manner, and his pronouncements. A sports commentator would rush in with their standard, inane question, "How do you feel?"
When the Church chose to make an octave celebration, these were the obvious readings to select for each day, and yet they are not overwhelming passages. That is, none bring their respective gospels to a rousing, roaring climax like the fourth movement of a Beethoven symphony. We do not see demons fleeing, enemies groveling, or a thousand disciples cheering like a Superbowl crowd. They're more subdued, serious and sober.
Enemies of faith will mock their simplicity. They'll ask why can't they see the man if he is indeed alive. Why didn't Pontius Pilate, Anna, Caiaphas, or Herod see him? The gospels do not set out to prove anything about Jesus; not even the appearances of the risen Lord. Although they sometimes use juridical language like witness and testimony, they do not expect to show beyond a reasonable doubt that the Lord lived or died or was raised up.
Apparently, they intend only to direct those who do believe in his mercy, generosity, and authority. We should tell the world what we believe and invite them to believe with us. By our confidence, courage, and kindness we lead others to worship the Lord with us. They will join us at the altar and then accompany us in our works of mercy.
They will know as we know God's endless resourcefulness. They will say to others what we say to them, "Help yourself. There's plenty more where that came from!" (As whatshername says, It's our nature.)
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I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.