We are called to be ambassadors of Christ

Acts 3:11-26; Psalm: 8; Lk 24:35-48

Today’s Gospel on the Thursday in the Octave of Easter is a powerful and profound passage that speaks to the disciples’ encounter with the risen Jesus. In this passage, Jesus appears to his disciples after his resurrection, showing them his wounds and opening their minds to understand the Scriptures. This moment is crucial in the disciples’ journey of faith and understanding of the significance of Jesus’ death and resurrection.

One of the key themes in this passage is the importance of understanding the Scriptures and how they point to Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promises. Jesus opens the disciples’ minds to understand the Scriptures, helping them see how everything that happened to him was foretold in the Old Testament. This moment of enlightenment is crucial for the disciples as it deepens their faith and helps them see the bigger picture of God’s plan for salvation.

Another important aspect of this passage is the physical presence of Jesus among his disciples. Jesus shows them his wounds as proof of his resurrection, reassuring them that he is indeed alive and with them. This physical encounter with Jesus strengthens the disciples’ faith and gives them hope for the future. It reminds them that Jesus’ resurrection is not just a spiritual concept but a real and tangible reality.

The disciples’ reaction to Jesus’ appearance is also worth noting in this passage. They are initially startled and afraid, thinking that they are seeing a ghost. But Jesus reassures them by showing them his hands and feet and inviting them to touch him. This moment of physical contact with Jesus helps the disciples overcome their fear and doubt, leading them to a deeper sense of belief and trust in Jesus.

The commissioning of the disciples in this passage is also significant. Jesus tells them that they are witnesses to his resurrection and that they are to proclaim repentance and forgiveness of sins to all nations. This commissioning marks the beginning of the disciples’ mission to spread the Good News of Jesus’ resurrection and salvation to the ends of the earth. It empowers them to go out and share their faith with others, knowing that Jesus is with them always.

As we reflect on this passage, we are reminded of the importance of faith, understanding, and mission in our own lives as Christians. Just like the disciples, we are called to deepen our faith by understanding the Scriptures and recognizing Jesus’ presence among us. We are also called to overcome our doubts and fears, trusting in the reality of Jesus’ resurrection and the power of his love and forgiveness.

Moreover, this passage challenges us to be witnesses to the risen Jesus in our own communities and to share the Good News with others. We are called to be instruments of God’s grace and mercy, proclaiming repentance and forgiveness to all who are in need. This mission is a responsibility that we must take seriously, knowing that we are called to be ambassadors of Christ in a world that is in desperate need of his love and compassion.

As we meditate on today’s Gospel, let us be inspired by the disciples’ journey of faith and understanding. Let us be reassured of Jesus’ presence among us and his call to mission. May we be guided by the Holy Spirit to deepen our faith, overcome our doubts, and boldly proclaim the Good News to all who will listen. And may we, like the disciples, be transformed by the encounter with the risen Jesus and be empowered to live out our faith in a world that is waiting to hear the message of hope and salvation.