Our Easter journey continues as we reflect on the last I am revelations of Jesus in the Gospel of John. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit. Last Sunday, He revealed Himself by saying I am the Good Shepherd who lay down my life for the sheep. Today, Jesus presents another image: The True Vine - to show us how we unite with Him and share in His One life. The way a branch is attached to a vine and receives nourishment through it.

The first three Sundays of Easter bring us back to the days after the resurrection and deepen our understanding and appreciation of the meaning of the empty tomb. The Lord has Risen! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Using the oldest yet the most common occupation in His time, Jesus uses the imagery of shepherding, a hint of His sacrifice and mission. He is the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep. On Good Shepherd Sunday, our Easter journey continues, knowing that we are in the watchful care of the Divine GOOD Shepherd.

Divine Mercy Sunday, we reflected on Thomas' experience and moving confession of faith. Today, the Gospel brings us back to the experience of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus and the unbelief of the Apostles on the first day of Easter. Cleopas and another disciple left Jerusalem frustrated and defeated when they met Jesus. Initially, they did not know it was Jesus and how they finally recognized Him in The Breaking of the Bread.

After the death of Jesus, his disciples scattered, afraid and unsure of their fate, but in the end, their faith in the resurrection of Jesus Christ prevailed. The newfound faith of the disciples led to a profound sense of unity among them. Their Easter faith has changed the way they live their lives. When we accept Jesus in our midst, the risen Lord is with us, and He is one with His Church, we can overcome our worries about our needs and the fear of those who act against the Church. Hopefully, like the first community of believers, with one heart and mind, we can freely and joyfully look after one another’s needs.