As today’s readings remind us, Easter week should be a time of celebration. I cannot help but smile at the image of the man in Acts “walking and jumping and praising God”! Today’s gospel ends with a scene of rejoicing as Cleopas and his brother disciple rush to confirm the women’s astounding news of Jesus’ resurrection. Basking in the glow of Easter Sunday, we should all be joining the Psalmist’s cry to “Rejoice, O hearts that seek the Lord!”
And yet I don’t think I’m alone this week in struggling to rejoice. Rather, the line that resonates most with me is Luke 24:17: “They stopped, looking downcast.” In the face of the coronavirus pandemic, our global society has ground to a halt. Thousands have died; millions are sick; billions are sheltering in their own upper rooms. Churches are shuttered, and this during the holiest week of the Christian year. At this remarkable moment in human history, we are all looking downcast, and for good reason.
Jesus’ resurrection does not eliminate pandemics, nor suffering, nor the needy lying at the “Beautiful Gates” of our own homes and churches. What the resurrection should do, however, is give us the grace to discern and the courage to respond. Following Peter and John, how are we called to assist those who are crippled today, those locked down in their homes? Like the Emmaus disciples, how are we called to extend hospitality to our families, our neighbors, and even the strangers in our midst? In the time of COVID-19, answers to these questions will require careful discernment; we may find our hearts “burning within us” in a desire to do more. But we trust that small acts of outreach and healing open space for God’s transforming spirit to rush in. Whether in our homes, our neighborhoods, or our virtual villages, may Christ be revealed to us this Easter season in the breaking of the bread.
Jay Carney
I am an Associate Professor of Theology who came to Creighton in 2011. My research and teaching engage Church History and World Christianity, especially modern Africa.
I am married with four children. My wife Becky is a remarkable woman, and our children have given both of us much love and laughter. I grew up in the Washington, DC area and have also lived in Wisconsin and North Carolina among other places. Prior to coming to Creighton, I worked in campus ministry at the University of Arkansas. In my spare time, I enjoy running, cycling, playing soccer, and listening to music of all types.
After years as a reader of Magnificat and then Give Us This Day, I am now seeing the other side! These reflections entail a very different style of writing than academic journal articles, and I’ve also gained newfound respect for the homilist’s task! I feel that I am “preaching” to myself as much as anyone else. It’s wonderful to know that so many people are walking together as disciples of Jesus Christ. Thank you for your prayers!
