As I reflect on the readings of the day, I cannot help but think about the vast array of emotions evoked through the Easter season.  Lent is a time of reflection, and repentance penance and prayer.  Lent concludes with the resurrection of Jesus—a time of incredible joy, and glory.

In today’s gospel, we join Jesus’ disciples as they experience many emotions during their encounter with Jesus.  Luke describes a gathering in which the disciples are recounting the past days.  During their conversation, Jesus appears, and greets them.  Great fear and confusion are the emotions that are described initially.  Jesus goes on to try to calm them.  He shows then his hands and feet to convince them that he is not a ghost.  Ghosts don’t have flesh and bones.  The disciples move into emotions described as joy and amazement. He asks his now joyful friends if they have any food for him to eat.  Jesus shares some baked fish with them.

Jesus reminds them of the teachings of the Scriptures and points out that they witnessed that which was written.
Today, I reflect on the emotions of Holy week.  The events of Holy Week bring out just about emotion or feeling I can think of.  One of my Lenten actions was to pray the examen before going to sleep.  The daily examen can provoke a range of feelings.  I typically feel happiness and joy and I consider the things for which I’m thankful.  When I review the day, and face my shortcomings, I may experience joy, excitement, apprehension, regret and sorrow.  I usually end the time with a sense of peace and hope when I meditate on the love God has for me and his endless ability to forgive.

Let us take some time to consider how we felt throughout Holy Week.  Do I notice any parallels to the feelings of the disciples?  Consider employing the examen into each day.  My hope is that we too, will feel the love and constant presence of our Lord through our journey on this earth.