Peace be with you

 

Gospel

Luke 24:35-48

35 The disciples of Jesus recounted what had taken place on the way and how they had come to recognize him in the breaking of bread. 36 While they were still speaking about this, he stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 37 But they were startled and terrified and thought that they were seeing a ghost. 38 Then he said to them, “Why are you troubled? And why do questions arise in your hearts? 39 Look at my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me and see, because a ghost does not have flesh and bones as you can see I have.” 40 And as he said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. 41 While they were still incredulous for joy and were amazed, he asked them, “Have you anything here to eat?” 42 They gave him a piece of baked fish; 43 he took it and ate it in front of them. 44 He said to them, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the law of Moses and in the prophets and psalms must be fulfilled.” 45 Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. 46 And he said to them, “Thus it is written that the Christ would suffer and rise from the dead on the third day 47 and that repentance, for the forgiveness of sins, would be preached in his name to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things.”

Introduction

Two disciples, still breathless from their encounter with the risen Jesus on the road to Emmaus, return to Jerusalem to share the news. As they speak, Jesus Himself appears among the gathered disciples—startling them, comforting them, and opening their minds to understand the Scriptures.

This passage is not only a historical moment; it is a living invitation. Jesus meets His followers in their fear, confusion, and doubt, and He brings peace, clarity, and mission. Today, He does the same for us.

Historical Background

This passage unfolds on the very day of the Resurrection. Earlier, the women discovered the empty tomb, Peter ran to see for himself, and two disciples encountered Jesus on the road to Emmaus.

The early Christian community is still in shock—hopeful, confused, and afraid. Reports of Jesus’ appearances are spreading, but the disciples struggle to believe. The Jewish understanding of resurrection was varied, and the idea of a crucified Messiah rising bodily was unprecedented. Jesus appears not as a ghost or vision but as the same Jesus who walked with them—now glorified, yet still bearing the marks of His love.

This moment becomes a turning point: the disciples move from fear to faith, from hiding to proclaiming.

Theological Context

The Peace of the Risen Christ. Jesus’ first words—“Peace be with you”—are not a greeting but a gift. He speaks peace into their fear, doubt, and guilt. Resurrection peace is not the absence of trouble but the presence of Christ.

The Bodily Resurrection. Jesus invites them to touch His hands and feet and even eats fish before them. This affirms that His resurrection is physical, not symbolic. Our future resurrection is real and embodied. Salvation involves the whole person—body and soul.

Scripture Fulfilled. Jesus opens their minds to understand the Law, Prophets, and Psalms. He shows that the Messiah had to suffer and would rise. His mission includes forgiveness for all nations. The Resurrection is not a surprise twist—it is the climax of God’s long-promised plan.

The Mission of Witnesses. Jesus commissions them to proclaim repentance and forgiveness to all nations beginning from where they are. The Resurrection is not only something to believe; it is something to share.

Learning Lessons

Peace comes from knowing Jesus and the reassurance of His presence. His resurrection is a testament to victory over sin and death. 

We should trust in God's promises, even when we face doubts. Even in moments of uncertainty, Christ offers peace.  Just as Jesus appeared to His disciples in their time of need, He is always with us, offering guidance and comfort. As His followers, we are called to share this hope with others.

Reflection for the Day

Today, Jesus invites us to see ourselves in the disciples—startled, unsure, longing for clarity. And like them, we encounter Him who steps into our locked rooms of fear and speaks peace.

Where do you need His peace today? In your home? Your work? Your relationships? Your inner battles?

Jesus does not scold the disciples for their doubts. Instead, He shows His wounds. He meets them where they are. He gives them understanding, purpose, and He does the same for you. Maybe you are carrying questions, feeling unworthy and stuck between fear and faith. Jesus comes close and says, “Peace be with you.” He shows you that His love is stronger than death, His presence stronger than fear, and His mission greater than your limitations.

Poem

In troubled seas, when storms arise, 

And fear takes hold beneath the skies,

 A voice so gentle, calm and true, 

Whispers softly, "Peace be with you."

When sorrow weighs upon your chest, 

And weary hearts can't find their rest, 

Love steps in—a healing view, 

And speaks again, "Peace be with you."

No door is closed too tight to break, 

No road too lost for love to take, 

For hope remains, and grace shines through, 

In every breath—"Peace be with you."

Prayer

Lord Jesus, 

Prince of Peace, You walked among us, bearing love and grace, And in moments of doubt and fear, You spoke, "Peace be with you."

In the storms of life, be our calm. When worry clouds our hearts, be our light. In sorrow, be our comfort. In struggle, be our strength.

Help us to trust in Your presence, To feel Your peace beyond understanding, And to share that peace with those in need.

Lord, guide our thoughts, our words, our actions, So that in all things, we may reflect Your love. Let Your peace reign in our hearts today and always.

Amen.

Pericope:

VIII: The Resurrection Narrative

THE APPEARANCE ON THE ROAD TO EMMAUS /TO THE DISCIPLES IN JERUSALEM

Luke 24:13-35 / 36-53

Gospel Acclamation

This is the day the Lord has made; let us be glad and rejoice in it.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

April 24, 2025, 9:13 AM

Peace Be With You

While they were still speaking about this, 

He stood in their midst and said to them, 

“Peace be with you.”

(Luke 24:36)

Peace comes from knowing Jesus and the reassurance of His presence. As Christians, we are called to be witnesses of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. The resurrection symbolizes repentance and forgiveness of sins. It reminds us of God’s mercy and the transformative power of repentance. To witness the power of God means to give our full faith that we too can do small things for our brothers and sisters. We are to be the instruments of His works. Like Jesus who returned from the dead after three days, we too should be patient in waiting for our time. Patience is a virtue that keeps our faith going. 

35 The disciples of Jesus recounted what had taken place on the way and how they had come to recognize him in the breaking of the bread. 36 While they were still speaking about this, he stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 37 But they were startled and terrified and thought that they were seeing a ghost. 38 Then he said to them, “Why are you troubled? And why do questions arise in your hearts? 39 Look at my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me and see, because a ghost does not have flesh and bones as you can see I have.” 40 And as he said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. 41 While they were still incredulous for joy and were amazed, he asked them, “Have you anything here to eat?” 42 They gave him a piece of baked fish; 43 he took it and ate it in front of them. 44 He said to them, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the law of Moses and in the prophets and psalms must be fulfilled.” 45 Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. 46 And he said to them, “Thus it is written that the Christ would suffer and rise from the dead on the third day 47 and that repentance, for the forgiveness of sins, would be preached in his name to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things.” (Luke 24:35-48)

In the quiet, peace descends, knowing Jesus, our faith extends. His presence, a reassuring light, guides us through the darkest night. Witnesses of His life, we stand, of His death, and resurrection grand. Symbol of repentance, sins forgiven, God's mercy, like a river, driven. The power of God, in us resides, In small acts of love, He confides. Instruments of His works, we become, His love, through us, to some. Like Jesus, who rose on day three, patient we wait, for our time to be. Patience, a virtue, faith's strong wing, in our hearts, His praises we sing.

Dear Lord Jesus, we find peace in knowing You, and we are reassured by Your constant presence in our lives. As Christians, we are called to be witnesses of Your life, Your death, and Your glorious resurrection. Your resurrection symbolizes repentance and the forgiveness of sins. It serves as a reminder of God's mercy and the transformative power of repentance. We are humbled by the knowledge that to witness the power of God means to give our full faith, and that we too can do small things for our brothers and sisters. We understand that we are to be the instruments of Your works. Like You, who returned from the dead after three days, we too should be patient in waiting for our time. We acknowledge that patience is a virtue that keeps our faith going. In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.

The mercy and love of God heals and restore areas of our lives that have been broken or damaged. We need God’s restoration and spiritual refreshment. It is important to acknowledge our sins and understand the consequences if we do not repent. He is willing to forgive us if we turn away from our sins. Let us experience Jesus in our lives ever confident in our beliefs and standing firm in them. This could be through prayer, reading the Bible, or through our interactions with others.

11 As the crippled man who had been cured clung to Peter and John, all the people hurried in amazement toward them in the portico called “Solomon’s Portico.” 12 When Peter saw this, he addressed the people, “You children of Israel, why are you amazed at this, and why do you look so intently at us as if we had made him walk by our own power or piety? 13 The God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his servant Jesus whom you handed over and denied in Pilate’s presence, when he had decided to release him. 14 You denied the Holy and Righteous One and asked that a murderer be released to you. 15 The author of life you put to death, but God raised him from the dead; of this we are witnesses. 16 And by faith in his name, this man, whom you see and know, his name has made strong, and the faith that comes through it has given him this perfect health, in the presence of all of you. 17 Now I know, brothers and sisters, that you acted out of ignorance, just as your leaders did; 18 but God has thus brought to fulfillment what he had announced beforehand through the mouth of all the prophets, that his Christ would suffer. 19 Repent, therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be wiped away, 20 and that the Lord may grant you times of refreshment and send you the Christ already appointed for you, Jesus, 21 whom heaven must receive until the times of universal restoration of which God spoke through the mouth of his holy prophets from of old. 22 For Moses said: A prophet like me will the Lord, your God, raise up for you from among your own kin; to him you shall listen in all that he may say to you. 23 Everyone who does not listen to that prophet will be cut off from the people. 24 “Moreover, all the prophets who spoke, from Samuel and those afterwards, also announced these days. 25 You are the children of the prophets and of the covenant that God made with your ancestors when he said to Abraham, In your offspring all the families of the earth shall be blessed. 26 For you first, God raised up his servant and sent him to bless you by turning each of you from your evil ways.” (Acts 3:11-26)

In the realm where broken pieces lie, God's mercy and love, a balm apply. Healing, restoring, making new, in our lives, His work to do. We need His touch, His restoration and spiritual refreshment, our salvation. To acknowledge our sins, we must learn or face consequences at every turn. Yet, He stands ready to forgive, if from our sins, we choose to live. Turn away, make a fresh start, His love and mercy, in us impart. Let us experience Jesus, so divine, in prayer, in scripture, His love does shine. Confident in beliefs, standing firm and tall through interactions, He reaches all.

Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You today, acknowledging Your mercy and love that heals and restores areas of our lives that have been broken or damaged. We are in need of Your restoration, Lord, and we seek Your spiritual refreshment. We understand the importance of acknowledging our sins, and we are aware of the consequences if we do not repent. We are grateful, Lord, for Your willingness to forgive us if we turn away from our sins. Help us to experience Jesus in our lives, to be ever confident in our beliefs and to stand firm in them. May this experience come through prayer, reading the Bible, or through our interactions with others. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

God made all of creation out of His love for us. His holy name is majestic throughout all creation. God, with His all-knowing power, created the perfect life-sustaining universe. God’s grace includes giving mankind dominion over all creation. We should praise God for giving us the responsibility to be stewards over His creation. Little children accept people at face value; no questions asked; no prejudices; no skepticism; in total faith, dependence, and trust. We are educated into skepticism; prejudices, and distrust. We should strive to have faith like a child.

2 O Lord, our Lord, how glorious is your name over all the earth! 5 What is man that you should be mindful of him, or the son of man that you should care for him? 6 You have made him little less than the angels,and crowned him with glory and honor. 7 You have given him rule over the works of your hands, putting all things under his feet. 8 All sheep and oxen, yes, and the beasts of the field, 9 the birds of the air, the fishes of the sea, and whatever swims the paths of the seas. (Psalm 8:2, 5, 6-7, 8-9)

In the vast expanse of the cosmos wide, God's love for us, He could not hide. He crafted creation with a loving hand, His holy name majestic, across every land. With all-knowing power, perfect and divine, He formed a universe, oh so fine. Life-sustaining, in every way, a testament to His glory, every day. God's grace abundant, a gift so grand, gave mankind dominion over sea and land. Stewards of creation, we're called to be, a responsibility, given by Thee. Children, innocent, accept with trust, in faith and dependence, as they must. No questions asked, no prejudice known, in their hearts, God's love is shown. Yet, as we grow, skepticism takes hold, prejudices form, our hearts grow cold. But let us strive, like a child, to see, and embrace faith, in its purity.

Dear Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of Your creation, a testament to Your boundless love for us. Your holy name is majestic throughout all creation, a constant reminder of Your omnipresence. With Your all-knowing power, You created a universe that sustains life, a perfect balance of elements that allows us to thrive. We are humbled by Your grace that includes giving mankind dominion over all creation. We praise You for entrusting us with the responsibility to be stewards over Your creation. We acknowledge the innocence and faith of little children, who accept people at face value, without questions, prejudices, or skepticism. They embody total faith, dependence, and trust. As we grow older, we are educated into skepticism, prejudices, and distrust. Yet, Lord, we strive to have faith like a child, unblemished and pure. Guide us, Lord, as we navigate through life. Help us to shed our prejudices and skepticism, and to embrace faith and trust. May we always remember Your love for us and strive to reflect that love in our interactions with others. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Pericope:

Gospel

VIII: The Resurrection Narrative

THE APPEARANCE ON THE ROAD TO EMMAUS /TO THE DISCIPLES IN JERUSALEM

Luke 24:13-35 / 36-53

First Reading

II: The Mission in Jerusalem

PETER'S SPEECH

Acts 3:11-26

Responsorial Psalm

First Book of Psalms 1-41

DIVINE MAJESTY AND HUMAN DIGNITY

Psalm 8:1-10