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 transform hearts, lives, and communities.
In Acts 3, we meet a man who had never walked a day in his life. Carried daily to the temple gate to beg, he was likely overlooked, pitied, or even ignored. But not today. Peter and John stop and offer him something beyond material aid:
“I have neither silver nor gold, but what I do have I give you: in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazorean, rise and walk.”
What follows is a scene of joy and astonishment. The man leaps to his feet, walks into the temple, and praises God. This miraculous moment echoes the new life that the Resurrection offers—not just physical healing, but spiritual restoration and renewed dignity.
Recognizing Jesus on the Road – Luke 24:13–35
The Gospel reading takes us to the road to Emmaus. Two disciples are walking away from Jerusalem, confused and disheartened after Jesus’ crucifixion. As they speak of their sorrow, a stranger joins them and begins to walk alongside them. It is Jesus, but they do not recognize Him.
He listens. He teaches. He breaks open the Scriptures. And finally, at table:
“He took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them. With that their eyes were opened and they recognized him.”
It’s in the breaking of the bread that their eyes are opened. Their hearts, once burdened, are now burning. This is how Christ often comes to us—quietly, patiently, and profoundly—especially in the Eucharist.
Faith that Moves, Faith that Walks
Both stories today center around recognition and response. One man is physically healed and leaps into new life. Two others are spiritually awakened and return immediately to Jerusalem with renewed purpose. In both cases, Jesus is the source of the transformation.
We are invited today to ask ourselves:
Where do I need healing?
Where am I walking away, when I should be walking toward?
Am I open to recognizing Jesus in the people and places I least expect?
The joy of the Resurrection is not just for Easter Sunday—it’s meant to fuel our daily lives, lift us from discouragement, and send us back into the world walking, leaping, and praising God.
Prayer for the Journey
Lord Jesus, walk beside me as you did with the disciples on the road to Emmaus. Open my heart to your Word and my eyes to your presence. Help me rise from whatever holds me back and go forth praising you. In your name, Amen.
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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.