Since Easter, people have not been recognizing Jesus in the readings. Even those closest to him do not recognize him. Thomas even insists on touching his pierced hands and sides. I do understand that. Once someone has died, you do not expect to see them again. Once someone is dead and buried, usually that’s it. But Jesus rose from the dead.
In the first reading, Paul says Jerusalem did not recognize Jesus when he was alive and did not understand that he was the one. But he was. They condemned him to death and executed him, but he rose from the dead. He is the son of God, the fulfillment of the scriptures, and he has risen. Paul says he wasn’t recognized before, but should be now.
Jesus says in the gospel that he is the way, the truth, and the life. And those who recognize him and follow him will have a place prepared and waiting. But as we have seen lately, it is hard to recognize Jesus. Even those closest to him have not recognized him. Those who were around him and heard him talk did not recognize him. And following him is not the easiest path. Recognizing him means realizing he is the one and that he is the way. And following that way means doing what is right, and looking out for others and not just ourselves. I look around, and I am afraid that not everyone gets it, and I am concerned about the state of the world. I wish everyone here actually recognized and was following. I think it would be great if this was a safe place. But I am still comforted to know that a place is prepared, and there is a path to follow to get there.
Tamora Whitney
I teach in the English department. I teach composition and literature and Critical Issues -- a class that has a component on Jesuit values.
I like writing these reflections because it makes me think more deeply about the scripture and think about how to integrate the ideas into my own life and how to share these ideas with others.
