The Gospel for the First Sunday after Easter is John 20:19-23. The risen Christ appears to ten of the apostles (Thomas is absent). When He comes, Jesus blesses the disciples with divine peace. Despite reports of the Resurrection, they are still fearful and timid, and troubled by guilt. When the risen Lord comes to where they are locked in, He brings greetings in the common Jewish manner, saying, “Peace be with you."
This Biblical greeting is an implied prayer for God’s peace. Christ's prayer for peace has a special meaning in light of His resurrection. It is a blessing from the risen Lord, who is the embodiment of God’s peace. After all that has happened, the disciples have a special need for His peace and assurance. They need His forgiveness and encouragement.
Christ does not stop with reassuring words. Jesus adds a mission or a call to action. As the heavenly Father has sent Him, likewise Christ sends the apostles (and through them, His whole Church). Jesus brings peace through His resurrection victory over sin and spiritual death, and He asks His disciples to share that peace with others. Jesus the Christ is risen and alive, and His peace is to be spread. His followers are to continue His work in the world. Christians are called to share the peace that comes through faith in the crucified and risen Lord with all people.
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