Daily Gospel Reflection for April 21, 2022: Thursday in the Octave of Easter

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: Luke 24:35-48

Two of Jesus’s followers had just been reunited with the risen Lord on the road to Emmaus. In an excited hurry, they return to Jerusalem to tell the disciples and those that were with them about their encounter with the Lord. In this excited utterance, they begin to tell the story of how they had encountered Jesus in the breaking of the bread. It was during this very conversation that Jesus appeared to all of them in His risen state.

The Gospel passage goes on to tell us that while they were still excited and joyful, Jesus asked them whether they had anything to eat. Then He went on to speak to them, to teach them, and to remind them that they are witnesses to the entire salvation story. What an amazing and awe-inspiring event this must have been! Not only to see the risen Lord and share that with friends, but to celebrate that Jesus was in fact alive! Why would Jesus ask for food in the middle of this joyous occasion? Could it be that sometimes when the Lord is present and has answered our prayers, that we forget to stop and celebrate Him? That we do not sit in that joy and remember what He has done for us? That we move to quickly to the next thing?

Today, think of the last time that you felt incredible joy in the Lord. Then take some time to sit and celebrate it. Maybe you commemorate it over a cup of hot coffee, by reading a book to your child or simply taking a walk. But whatever way you choose to commemorate a special moment that you’ve had with Jesus, remember, like the disciples, to really feel that joy and celebrate in a way that makes Him present all over again.

Ponder:

When is the last time I celebrated and thanked God for a prayer that He has answered or a wonderful moment in time that He gave me?

Pray:

Lord, there are so many moments in my life that You have given me great joy. Today, help me to not only remember them, but to celebrate them once again with You by my side.