Scripture Reflection, April 5, 2026, Easter Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord

Readings will vary, depending upon which Liturgy you attend.

Imagine a time in your life when you have read a book, watched a movie/TV show, or listened to someone tell you a profound story. Perhaps you walked away from that experience with a little extra “spring” in your step; because you were feeling inspired, motivated, energized - thankful for the gift of life, and thankful for the story you had just experienced. Perhaps you realized that the story meant something to you - something special - and you were anxious to share it with someone else; hoping that they would share your joy and be inspired to tell another person.

Today could be that day for you! Any one of today’s gospel passages could provide the foundation for your story. (There are various passages for the various Masses this weekend: Easter Vigil — Matt. 28:1-10…..Easter Morning — John 20:1-9…..Easter Afternoon — Luke 24:13-35.

Today, rather than writing a reflection for you, I invite you to create your own - today or one day during this coming week. Today, I present for you the simple but profound technique called: Gospel Contemplation - a favorite prayer form of St. Ignatius Loyola .

Select one of today’s gospel passages and read it slowly twice, aloud, if possible. Feel free to use your imagination to fill in details not given. Next, imagine yourself as a participant in the story. You can choose to be anyone listed in the story or you can add yourself as a bystander. Imagine, what is being said, what feelings are being expressed? What is Jesus doing? How are people, including yourself, reacting to Jesus? What are you thinking and/or feeling? Are you being “called” to action as a result of the story?** (Don’t be anxious. Just trust Jesus and the Holy Spirit to lead you through this prayer experience.)

When you are finished with this gospel reflection, talk with the Lord about your experience. If it was a bit difficult for you this time, resolve to try it again someday, with a different passage. Trust me: this form of prayer gets easier the more you practice it.

(**Adapted from: Finding God in All Things, A Marquette Prayer Book, referenced at:

ignatianspirituality.com)

[Happy Easter! May you and your family experience the love, the joy and the courage of the risen Lord in a special way today and in the days to come.]

by: Bill Miller