THE WORD BECAME FLESH

Wednesday of Octave of Easter

Acts 3:1-10

Ps 118

Luke 24:13-35

I give you what I have…

Dear friends in Christ, there are times when others turn to you for one favour or the other. Sometimes what they ask may be more than what you can afford to give at that moment. Is there a way to still meet their needs, by giving what you have?

Our first reading today is from Acts 3:1-10. In it, we heard the story of a miracle worked by the Apostles, on their way to the Temple— at the Beautiful Gate. A man lame from birth was asking for alms. He asked from Peter and John. Peter said to him. “I have no silver and gold, but I give you what I have; in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise and walk.” The man regained the use of his limbs instantly and walked into the Temple with them. It became a cause of great joy and rejoicing—a feeling of wonder and amazement led everyone to praise God. It may not be possible for all of us, to work instant miracles like Peter and John did. But we always have the opportunity to do things that could bring joy and happiness to others, and cause them to praise God. Peter’s words to the man is a challenge, ‘I do not have what you ask of me, but here is what I can do for you.’ It is not always, you will have money or material things to hand out to the needy. A little smile, a word of comfort, relief items… etc, may just do the wonder.

In the Gospel of today (Luke 24:13-35) we listened to another of the post-resurrection appearances of Jesus. This time to two of the disciples on their way to Emmaus. They were accompanied by a stranger while arguing on the way about the events of the past few days. This stranger opened their minds to the Scriptures, which had foretold the events, they said, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the scriptures?” What gave them the certainty it was the Lord, was “When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. And their eyes were opened and they recognised him; and he vanished out of their sight.” These disciples were blind to the reality they had in their hands and all they needed were some words of comfort from this stranger after the monumental tragedy they’ve experienced. But the Lord using the scriptures and the Eucharist opened their eyes. The Eucharist is the sacrament of God’s love and presence in the world. It is the closest human beings can get to God here on earth. People who deny themselves the grace of this sacrament are either ignorant or have misplaced priorities, about how to come close to God. As you approach the Lord in the Eucharist say with these disciples, “Stay with us Lord.”

Let us pray: Lord, you have left us the memorial of your passion and death in the sacrament of your love—the Eucharist. Make us worthy to receive you with reverence and deep love, so that we may bring your love to others, Amen.

+Remain blessed