Hearts on Fire

    

Third Sunday of Easter

23 April 2023

 

First Reading: Acts 2:14, 22-23

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 16:1-2, 5, 7-8, 9-10, 11

Second Reading: 1 Pt 1:17-21

Gospel: Lk 24:13-35

 

Reflection

By: Pietro S. Albano

 

"Were not our hearts burning within us while he spoke to us on the way and opened the Scriptures to us? (Lk 24:32)

Fr. Anthony Dolan, a retired priest who lives next to our parish church, once encouraged us to listen to God's Word as though it was our first time hearing it. Indeed, there is  a temptation to take God's Word for granted especially if we have been so familiar with it.

In today's Gospel, the two disciples experienced hearing the Scriptures with fresh pair of ears on their way to Emmaus. Their being downcast at the apparent 'failure' of Jesus' death prevented them from recognizing Him. Out of His love, Jesus made the move to help them recall the Scriptures, realize its fulfillment in Him, and recognize their Master in the breaking of the bread.

Such action of Jesus is repeated every time the Mass is celebrated through the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist. That is why it is really important that we come to church on time, otherwise we will be missing out either of these liturgies, the Liturgy of the Word especially. And if we do miss it out, we won't be able to appreciate the Liturgy of the Eucharist. Worse, we may not be able to receive Holy Communion.

Another suggestion is to read and reflect on the Mass readings beforehand. As a lector and as a worshipper, I find these practices really helpful in my service and in my spiritual growth. Preparing for Mass through God's Word fans the flame of love in our proud, fearful, or downcast hearts and makes us better witnesses of the Risen Lord. As the Responsorial Psallm goes "Lord, you will show us the path of life" (cf. Ps 16:11).

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your Word today. Make our hearts burn as we listen to Your Word so that we too may always recognize You in the breaking of the bread, and proclaim the Good News of Your  Resurrection to all. Amen.