2nd Sunday of Easter - C

Commentary

John 20: 19-31

From Sinner to Forgiver, from Death to Life-giving

The Risen Christ gives the fearful disciples peace. This peace comes with His forgiveness for their failures.

Moreover, he breathes on them. At the beginning of time, God's breath brought forth life. Now, the Risen Christ's breath brings forth new life [1]. This breath bestows on the disciples the life-giving Spirit.

Now, not only do the disciples receive forgiveness and peace, they are empowered to forgive sins.

And they are sent. As Jesus was sent by the Father, so are the disciples. They are sent to forgive sins and to give life and peace.

With the power of the Holy Spirit given by the Risen Christ, sinners now forgive sins, and those who were once dead to sins now give life.

Such is the extent of God's forgiveness and mercy. God's mercy truly knows no bounds.

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[1] Francis J. Moloney, SDB., The Gospel of John, Sacra Pagina Series. Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press, 1988; p. 535.