This weekend, we hear the story about the disciples who were leaving Jerusalem to Emmaus. From the context of their conversation, they were saddened by Jesus’ death and their difficulty at believing that he had arisen, as was reported to them. Sadness and distress happens when we lose those closest to us. This Saturday, April 22nd is the 28th anniversary of my father’s passing. If you have ever lost a parent, specifically a father, you know the sadness that can follow. And so, it is a solemn day for me to offer Mass. Yet, it is not done in ignorance as these disciples initially displayed, because I have faith in the Resurrection of Christ and the mercy of God which give me hope to be reunited with my dad someday. Like them, I have encountered the Risen Chris in the “breaking of the bread” at Mass in my own personal life. It is my deepest desire that we all encounter Christ in a powerful, transformative, and ongoing way.

If you are wandering in your faith or feel abandoned or saddened by some great loss in your life, please seek out the Lord of all Hope and Joy. Ask Jesus to open your heart and show you how much he loves you. Ask him to show you the path of life (cf. Psalm 16 Response for today’s Mass) he has called you to live. May this Easter season bring you opportunities for this renewal of your hope and joy.