"Thus it is written...that repentance, for the forgiveness of sins, would be preached in his name (Christ) to all the nations." - Luke 24: 46-47
In today's Gospel, two disciples tell their companions about their extraordinary experience: how in the breaking of the bread at Emmaus they recognized with their "eyes of faith" the new, transformed reality of Jesus Christ. As they express this experience, Jesus suddenly appears in their midst. He shows them the marks from His crucifixion, and He eats with them. Yes, God transformed the earthly Jesus into an indescribable, transcendent reality. And God will transform us in the mystery of our own death. Then the disciples proclaim with faith and courage the Good News: Jesus Christ is alive, and because He lives, you and I live.
To be a disciple of Jesus is to be fundamentally a man or woman of faith and courage. The gift of faith, like a flower in a garden, has to be nurtured. Let me highlight four simple practices to nurture the gift of our faith: tune into the presence of God daily for at least 15 minutes; study the wisdom of the Bible and the Church; serve others in the community; and share your faith. Let's keep the eternal flame alive within us.
How can I better reflect values such as honesty, integrity, responsibility, friendship, courage, perseverance, compassion, loyalty, faith in God, and respect for colleagues at work and in the community?
Lord Jesus, give me the courage to talk about my faith, wherever and whenever appropriate.
Reflection by:
Fr. Kevin Mackin, OFM
Did You Know...
Fr. Kevin E. Mackin, OFM, of St. Anthony Friary in St. Petersburg, has served in parish ministry and chaplaincy, and as a college president and professor. His articles and books include Enjoying God's Gifts; Get Thee Behind Me, Satan: Rejecting Evil; and Christian Unity: The Next Step 'That They May All Be One.' His website is afranciscanjourney.blogspot.com.
