Greg Friedman, OFM

The New Testament Book of Revelation is puzzling with its strange descriptions and symbolism. Many readers misunderstand its purpose and try to find involved, often convoluted references to specific events in our own time or the future. But much of Revelation refers to the time in which it was written.

Today when we hear the exciting adventures of Paul and Barnabas in the reading from the “Acts of the Apostles” we may wonder:  How can we answer the call from Jesus to “go out and preach to all nations”? One way is to support missionaries we may know personally by our prayers and financial help.

Christians down through the ages have come to recognize the risen Christ in their midst as the Scriptures are proclaimed and the Eucharistic meal is shared. What we are celebrating in this Easter Season–the Paschal sacrifice of Christ, his dying and rising—is present to us in each Mass.

Today’s Easter story is specifically directed at us–those who would come to believe in Jesus down through the ages. We are part of a community of faith–a living legacy passed on from generation to generation, and often given at great cost, with personal sacrifice.

In his essay, J.R.R. Tolkien pays tribute to the power of the Christian proclamation. He notes that there is no other story which so many skeptics “have accepted as true on its own merits.” Our Easter Gospel is a story of living faith in which we are participants, and to which we are now witnesses.

Luke remains consistent to the characteristics he’s highlighted all through his Gospel. He especially depicts Jesus’ concern for those on the margins of society–shown as the Lord heals in the Garden, comforts the weeping women, forgives his executioners, and welcomes the repentant thief.