Second Sunday in Easter, April 8, 2018, Year B

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Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Acts 4:32-35)

God’s grace is powerfully upon the earliest group of believers as they share all things in common and sell their own possessions. The apostles oversee the distribution of the proceeds and deliver powerful witness to the resurrection of Jesus.

Psalm (133)

The Psalmist rhapsodizes over the rich experience of families living in harmony. He likens it to the copious anointing oil poured over Aaron, the brother of Moses and the first in the line of Israel’s priests. It is the blessing of life forevermore.

Second Reading (1 John 1:1-2:2)

John insists that his message is unchanged, based on a personal encounter with the risen Lord and for our mutual fellowship with both Son and Father. If we confess our sins we have pardon in Jesus, our atoning sacrifice and advocate with the Father.

Gospel (John 20:19-31)

On Easter evening Jesus appears to his disciples and breathes the Holy Spirit on them, sending them into the world to continue his mission. A week later, he convinces a doubting Thomas and blesses those who believe without actually seeing themselves.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • A natural part of the new Christian reality is life in harmonious community with fellow believers
  • Grace enables harmonious living within the community of believers
  • The resurrection of Jesus is attested by the personal witness of those who encountered him in risen form
  • The resurrection of Jesus brings new and abundant life

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gospel (John 20:19-31)

In two post-resurrection appearances Jesus first bestows peace upon his disciples and then shows them his hands and his side.