Sunday Reading Reflections:

March 23, 2008
Easter Sunday: The Resurrection of the Lord (solemnity)

READING 1: Acts 10:34, 37-43
Reading 1 Reflection:

Peter speaks with the wonderful freedom of an Easter Christian! He knows now that God's message of salvation is for all people. It is not limited to any one nation. Filled with enthusiasm, Peter gives his own witness to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. He rejoices in his own call to preach the good news of Jesus Christ risen from the dead.

Discussion Questions for Reading 1:

What? God raised him up? This Jesus who had suffered so much and died on the cross? Sometimes we take the resurrection of Jesus too calmly. We have heard about it all of our lives. Can we really somehow experience what it means? How can you keep the wondrous message alive in you? How can you be an Easter Christian? How can you share your joy with others?


READING 2: Colossians 3:1-4 or 1 Corinthians 5:6b-8
Reading 2 Reflection:

Today's second reading gives us good advice: Look up to the risen Christ. Seek the values of his kingdom. Don't get trapped in false values. Be faithful until the day when we all will appear with Christ in his glory. Name one value of Jesus and tell how you will be especially faithful to it during Easter week.

Discussion Questions for Reading 2
What does "Your life is hidden now with Christ in God" mean to you?


Gospel:John 20:1-9 or Matthew 28:1-10
Gospel Reflection:

The gospel story of the empty tomb proclaims a joyful freedom theme. Jesus is free from the bonds of death! Mary Magdalene is freed from fear and becomes a witness to his resurrection. Peter and John are free to believe that their Lord is risen from the dead. The dawn of Easter frees us from fear and the darkness of sin. Alleluia!

Discussion Questions for Gospel:

How will your faith in the risen Lord free you to be a better person? How have you "seen and believed" this Easter?