Easter Reflections: "Second Chances"

Today, the Second Sunday of Easter, is also Divine Mercy Sunday. The theme of this Sunday perhaps is "Second Chances."

In the Gospel, Jesus appeared to His disciples in the upper room. The first time, Thomas was absent. And when they told Him that the Lord is risen, he didn't believe. He brushed the news aside saying that unless he probes the pierced hands, feet, and side of Jesus, he would not believe. The second time Jesus appeared, He was already there. But instead of condemning Thomas, Jesus, with much compassion, forgave Thomas for doubting.

Dear friends, many times in our lives we act like Thomas: "To see is to believe." We doubt Jesus' presence and love when things don't go our way, when life becomes troublesome. But even though we "doubt," Jesus always compassionately forgives us and shows us his love.

In this Easter season, may we truly rejoice in the many "second chances" the Lord has given us. Amen.