Thursday in the Octave of Easter: Witnesses of the Risen Christ
April 24, 2025 Thursday in the Octave of Easter: Witnesses of the Risen Christ Today’s readings draw us into the heart of the Christian mystery—Jesus Christ risen from the dead, and our calling to witness this truth to the world. In the First Reading (Acts 3:11–26), Peter speaks boldly in Solomon’s Portico. A miracle has occurred—a crippled man now walks, and the crowd is stunned. But Peter does not take credit. Instead, he points to Jesus, the “author of life,” whom the people had rejected, but whom God raised from the dead. Peter’s words echo with grace and mercy. He acknowledges the people acted “out of ignorance,” and now he calls them to repent and be converted, so their sins may be wiped away. This is not a message of condemnation but of restoration—an invitation to receive “times of refreshment” through Christ. In the Gospel (Luke 24:35–48), the disciples are still grappling with the Resurrection. Jesus appears and offers peace. He shows them His hands and feet. He eats in their presence. He opens their minds to understand the Scriptures, grounding their faith not in feeling but in fulfilled prophecy. Then comes the mission: “You are witnesses of these things.” This mission is ours too. As Christians, we are called to proclaim repentance, forgiveness, and resurrection, not just with words, but with our lives. Reflection Questions: Have I allowed Christ to open my heart to understand His Word more deeply? In what ways am I a witness to His resurrection today? Where in my life do I need to hear His words, “Peace be with you”? Explore Our Latest Articles Thursday in the Octave of Easter: Witnesses of the Risen Christ April 24, 2025 Latest Articles April 23, 2025 Wednesday in the Octave of Easter – The Breaking of the Bread and the Power of Faith Walking, Leaping, Praising – A New Beginning As we continue celebrating the joy of the Resurrection during this Octave of Easter, today’s readings remind us of how encounters with the risen Christ… Read More Wednesday in the Octave of Easter – The Breaking of the Bread and the Power of Faith April 23, 2025 Latest Articles April 23, 2025 Wednesday in the Octave of Easter – The Breaking of the Bread and the Power of Faith Walking, Leaping, Praising – A New Beginning As we continue celebrating the joy of the Resurrection during this Octave of Easter, today’s readings remind us of how encounters with the risen Christ… Read More Tuesday in the Octave of Easter Reflection: Recognizing the Risen Lord April 22, 2025 Latest Articles April 22, 2025 Tuesday in the Octave of Easter Reflection: Recognizing the Risen Lord Today’s readings on this Tuesday in the Octave of Easter invite us to embrace transformation and recognize the presence of the Risen Lord in our lives. In the first reading (Acts 2:36-41), Peter boldly proclaims to… Read More Monday in the Octave of Easter: Continuing the Joy of the Resurrection April 21, 2025 Latest Articles April 21, 2025 Monday in the Octave of Easter: Continuing the Joy of the Resurrection Easter is not just a day—it’s a season. On this Monday in the Octave of Easter, we continue to celebrate the victory of Jesus over death, rejoicing in the hope that His Resurrection brings to the world. In the… Read More The Resurrection of the Lord – Easter Sunday Reflection April 20, 2025 Latest Articles April 20, 2025 The Resurrection of the Lord – Easter Sunday Reflection The Greatest Celebration: Christ Is Risen Easter Sunday is the most important day of the Christian faith. Today, we rejoice in the Resurrection of the Lord, celebrating His victory over sin and death. This moment marks the… Read More Did You Pray Today? Daily prayer is a powerful way to strengthen your faith, find peace, and invite God’s presence into your life. Even a few moments of prayer can bring clarity, comfort, and spiritual renewal. Whether you are starting your day, taking a break, or preparing for sleep, these short yet meaningful prayers help you stay connected to God. Take a moment now to pray: The Sign of the Cross In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. The Our Father (The Lord’s Prayer) Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name;thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses,as we forgive those who trespass against us;and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen. The Hail Mary Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. A Daily Habit of Prayer: These prayers take less than a minute, yet they bring us closer to God each day. Keep prayer at the center of your life and experience His love and guidance. Walking in Faith, Growing in Grace Every day is an opportunity to draw closer to God. In prayer, in scripture, and in the moments of stillness, He speaks to our hearts. Faith is not just about knowing—it’s about living, trusting, and walking in His light. Through life’s joys and challenges, we are called to remain steadfast, to seek Him in all things, and to reflect His love in our words and actions. Even the smallest acts of faith— a whispered prayer, a kind word, a moment of gratitude— bring us deeper into His presence. May this space be a source of encouragement, reflection, and renewal for you. Wherever you are on your journey, know that God is with you. Keep the faith, stay rooted in prayer, and continue seeking His truth.