Hello, Reader!
Alleluia! Join us this Sunday at 9 AM for Morning Prayer as we gather during the Easter season to encounter the risen Lord alongside Thomas and the other disciples. Jesus appears to them amid their fear and doubt, offering peace and the gift of the Holy Spirit.
First Reading – Acts 2:14a, 22–32 Peter boldly proclaims the resurrection in Jerusalem, declaring that Jesus—whom you saw perform deeds of power among you—has been raised by God. This is not theory but eyewitness testimony. Peter cites Scripture to show that the resurrection fulfills God’s plan rather than reverses it. The apostles stand as witnesses: they have seen the risen Jesus with their own eyes.
Psalm 16 The psalmist expresses unwavering trust: “I have set the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand I shall not fall.” The climax offers a promise that resonates with resurrection hope: “For you will not abandon me to the grave… You will show me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy.” When Peter quotes this at Pentecost, he applies it to Christ—and through Christ, to all who believe.
Epistle – 1 Peter 1:3–9 Peter reflects on the meaning of resurrection for believers. We have been given new birth into a living hope through the resurrection. Our inheritance—kept in heaven for us—is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading. Though we have not seen the risen Jesus with our own eyes, we love him, believe in him, and experience a joy beyond description. Our faith is complete and sufficient to secure the salvation of our souls.
Gospel – John 20:19–31 Jesus appears to the disciples in the locked room, offering peace. He shows them his hands and side, then commissions them: “As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” He breathes on them: “Receive the Holy Spirit.” Thomas was absent and demanded proof. A week later, Jesus appears again and invites Thomas to touch the wounds himself. Thomas responds with the profoundest confession: “My Lord and my God!” Jesus blesses all future believers: “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.”
Thomas embodies every doubter, every person for whom faith is a struggle. The risen Jesus does not dismiss him but meets him where he is—offering a blessing to all of us who must walk by faith rather than by sight.
Read the full readings and reflections
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If you need inspiration for prayer, consider the Book of Common Prayer or these prayers to guide your prayer journey.
Blessings, and have a great week!
