The disciples, locked away in fear of the authorities, found themselves in an upper room shrouded in darkness that hardly resembled a home. The absence of the loving Jesus sacrificed in Calvary left a void, leaving only fear and shame as life seemed to fade away.
Though it’s spring outside, they are trapped in a dark void. Suddenly, Jesus enters their fears and shame, passing through closed doors. The Son of God is a healing balm, bringing love and hope in their midst. He is alive!
I cherish God’s open doors and breaches in the walls. Jesus stands among us in our fears—not to condemn, but to be present with everyone equally. He is at the heart of our community and encounters. The Spirit of the Lord dwells not just in one individual or the other but in the space between “I” and “you.”
“Peace be with you” can calm fears and inspire awe. Jesus is here with us—not through grand gestures but by being present. Jesus’s presence is love; he doesn’t blame or abandon us. He offers peace like a gentle touch to soothe fears, guilt, and unfulfilled dreams.
Just as we have the Eucharist at the center, his body, blood, and divinity, not judging but embracing and nourishing us, reminding us that love and eternal life are unbreakable gifts that not even death can take away from us.
The loving and forgiving embrace of Jesus fills our hearts with joy; we burst into tears: My Lord and My God!