The risen Christ is fully with Us!
Readings: 1st: Acts 2: 14.22-33; Ps: 15; 2nd: 1 Pt 1: 17-21; Gos: Jn 24: 13-35
This brief reflection was written by Rev. Fr. Njoku Canice Chukwuemeka, C.S.Sp. He is a Catholic Priest and a Member of the Congregation of the Holy Ghost Fathers and Brothers (Spiritans). He is currently working with the Spiritan International Group of Puerto Rico & Dominican Republic. He is the Administrator of Parroquia La Resurrección del Senor, Canovanas and the Chancellor of the Diocesis of Fajardo-Humacao, Puerto Rico. For more details and comments contact him on: canice_c_njoku@yahoo.com, cancilleriadfh@gmail.com, canicechukwuemeka@gmail.com.
Today’s gospel draws our attention to very important aspects of our Christian life. That is, the liturgy of the Word, and the Holy Eucharist
It is important to note the sequence of activities on this journey to Emmaus. First, Christ illuminated the minds of his disciples with scriptures (liturgy of the Word): “Then starting with Moses, he explained to them the passages in the scriptures that speaks about himself.”
Second, Christ celebrated the Eucharist with them: “While he was still with them at table, he took the bread, and said the blessing; then he broke it, and gave it to them.”
After this, something very important happened: “…Their eyes opened, and they recognized him…” It is important to note that, it was only after these two important celebrations, that these disciples recognized Christ.
The celebration of the Eucharist with his disciples, highlights the importance of Christ’s instruction: “Do this in memory of me.” Indeed, Christ has ransomed, and gave us new life through his paschal mystery.
Yet he continues to sustain and nourish this new life. He continues give himself to us both in the liturgy of the Word and the Eucharist. Hence, the saying: “Liturgy is Life!” This means that, neglecting these two liturgies, means neglecting life.
Christ did this today to remind us that each time we celebrate these liturgies worthily, He opens our eyes, in order to recognize his divine presence with us. Through the breaking of bread, He nourishes our life.
Therefore, at Mass, Christ is present to renew our life. At every Mass, he offers himself again, as a ransom for us. So, let us ask the Christ to always open the eyes of our minds, in order to recognize Him at every Eucharistic celebration. Alleluia, Alleluia!
Peace be with you all!
Maranatha!
frcanicenjoku 