Thursday in the Octave of Easter

• First Reading – Acts 3:11-26: Peter addressed a crowd after healing a crippled man in the Solomon’s Portico. He attributed the healing to faith in Jesus, called for repentance, and explained how Jesus fulfilled the prophecies of the Old Testament.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 8: God’s name is exalted worldwide, pondering His mindfulness of humanity, bestowed with near-divine stature and entrusted with creation’s stewardship. All earth’s creatures, reflecting this honor, underscore the breadth of His magnificence.
• Gospel – Luke 24:35-48: Jesus appeared to his disciples after his resurrection and proved to them that he was not a ghost by showing them his hands and feet and eating a piece of fish. He then helped them understand that the Scriptures prophesied his suffering, death, and resurrection, and charged them with spreading the message of repentance and forgiveness to all nations.

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.

Luke 24:39

Thursday in the Octave of Easter reflects on the joy of the resurrection, the call to repentance, and the mission to share the good news. The readings highlight Jesus’ fulfillment of God’s promises and the responsibility to live as witnesses of his message.

• Jesus Fulfills God’s Plan: Peter explains in the first reading that Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection fulfill the promises made in Scripture. This reminds us that God’s plan for salvation is faithful and complete.
• Repentance and Forgiveness: Both readings call people to repent and receive forgiveness through Jesus. This shows that turning to God opens the way for new life and renewal.
• Peace Through Jesus’ Presence: In the Gospel, Jesus brings peace to his disciples as he appears to them after the resurrection. His presence calms their fears and strengthens their faith.
• Understanding Through Scripture: Jesus helps the disciples understand Scripture and how it points to his mission. This shows the importance of studying Scripture to deepen our understanding of faith.
• Witnesses to the Resurrection: Jesus calls his disciples to be witnesses of his life, death, and resurrection. This reminds us that we are also called to share the hope and joy of the resurrection with others.
• God’s Faithfulness to All: Peter emphasizes that Jesus’ mission is for everyone, calling all nations to turn to God. This reflects the universal nature of God’s love and salvation.
• Hope in the Risen Christ: Both readings highlight the hope that comes from Jesus’ victory over death. This hope gives strength and purpose to those who follow him.

Thursday in the Octave of Easter invites us to reflect on the peace and hope that Jesus brings through his resurrection. The readings call us to live as witnesses of his love and to trust in the fulfillment of God’s promises.

Thursday in the Octave of Easter reflects on Jesus’ resurrection and the mission he gives his followers. The readings highlight God’s faithfulness, the importance of understanding Scripture, and the call to witness the good news. These reflections encourage us to trust in God’s plan and to share the joy of Christ’s resurrection with others.

God’s Plan Fulfilled Through Jesus

In the first reading for Thursday in the Octave of Easter, Peter explains that Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection fulfill the promises made in Scripture. These promises were part of God’s plan from the beginning, showing his care and faithfulness to his people. Jesus’ resurrection confirms that God’s plan is complete and offers hope to all who believe.

This fulfillment reminds us to trust in God’s promises, even when life feels uncertain. Just as God’s plan unfolded through Jesus, his care continues in our own lives. Reflecting on this truth can strengthen our faith and encourage us to rely on God’s guidance.

Thursday in the Octave of Easter calls us to reflect on how Jesus’ life and resurrection reveal the fulfillment of God’s promises. It invites us to place our trust in God’s plan and to live with hope, knowing that his love is constant and unchanging.

Understanding Scripture Through Jesus

In the Gospel for Thursday in the Octave of Easter, Jesus explains the Scriptures to the disciples, helping them understand his mission. He shows how the writings of the prophets and the law point to his life, death, and resurrection. This moment highlights the importance of Scripture in revealing God’s plan for salvation.

By studying Scripture, we deepen our understanding of who Jesus is and what he asks of us. Scripture guides us, encourages us, and helps us grow in faith. It teaches us to recognize God’s work in history and in our own lives.

Thursday in the Octave of Easter reminds us to make Scripture a part of our daily lives. By reflecting on God’s word, we can grow closer to Jesus and gain a clearer understanding of his mission and his love for us.

Called to Be Witnesses

Both the first reading and the Gospel for Thursday in the Octave of Easter emphasize the call to be witnesses of Jesus’ resurrection. Peter boldly proclaims Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promises and calls the people to repentance. In the Gospel, Jesus sends the disciples out to share the message of his life, death, and resurrection with all nations.

This call to witness reminds us that faith is not meant to be kept private. It is a gift that is meant to be shared with others. By living with hope and sharing the good news, we participate in Jesus’ mission to bring salvation to the world.

Thursday in the Octave of Easter encourages us to reflect on how we can be witnesses of Jesus’ resurrection. Through our words and actions, we can share his peace and love with others, bringing hope and light to those around us.

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The reflections for Thursday in the Octave of Easter remind us of the peace and hope Jesus brings to our lives. By trusting in God’s promises, growing in understanding of Scripture, and living as witnesses to his love, we can help others encounter the risen Christ. May we carry the light of the resurrection into our daily lives.

Prayer

Lord, you fulfilled your promises through the resurrection of your Son. Help us to trust in your plan and to understand your word. Guide us to be witnesses of your love and to share the hope of your resurrection with others. May we walk in your peace and joy each day. Amen.

Reflection Questions

• How does knowing God’s plan was fulfilled through Jesus strengthen your faith?
• What steps can you take to grow in understanding of Scripture?
• How can you share the message of Jesus’ resurrection in your daily life?
• When have you experienced peace through knowing Jesus is with you?

Word on Fire: Shalom

Bishop Robert Barron reflects on the Gospel for Thursday in the Octave of Easter, emphasizing Jesus’ appearance to his disciples after his resurrection. Instead of seeking revenge for their abandonment and betrayal, Jesus shows them his wounds and offers peace, symbolizing divine love over vengeance.

This act of reconciliation opens a new spiritual world, contrasting the common narrative of order restored through violence with the profound message of salvation through divine love and peace.

What date is Thursday in the Octave of Easter?

The next date is Thursday April 24, 2025.

What are the Mass readings for Thursday in the Octave of Easter?

The Mass readings for Thursday April 24, 2025 are:
First Reading – Acts 3:11-26: Peter Preaches the Resurrection
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 8: The Dignity of Humanity
Gospel – Luke 24:35-48: Jesus Appears to His Disciples

Why does Peter speak about Jesus fulfilling God’s plan in the first reading for Thursday in the Octave of Easter?

Peter explains that Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection were part of God’s plan from the beginning. This shows that God’s promises in Scripture are trustworthy and complete.

What does repentance mean in the first reading?

Repentance means turning away from sin and choosing to follow God. Peter calls the people to repent so they can receive forgiveness and a renewed relationship with God.

What can we learn from Peter’s boldness?

Peter’s courage shows the power of faith and the Holy Spirit. It encourages us to speak about Jesus and trust that God will guide us.

Why does Jesus bring peace to the disciples in the Gospel for Thursday in the Octave of Easter?

Jesus brings peace to calm their fears and reassure them after his resurrection. His presence reminds them that he is alive and still with them.

What does it mean to be witnesses?

Being witnesses means sharing the message of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection with others. Jesus calls his followers to spread this hope and joy to all people.

How does Jesus help the disciples understand Scripture?

Jesus explains how the Scriptures point to his mission and role as the Messiah. This helps the disciples see how his death and resurrection fulfill God’s promises.

Why is forgiveness so important in the readings for Thursday in the Octave of Easter?

Forgiveness restores our relationship with God and brings peace to our hearts. It allows us to live in hope and renewal through Jesus.

How can the readings for Thursday in the Octave of Easter guide us in our lives?

The readings remind us to trust in God’s promises, turn to him for forgiveness, and share the joy of Jesus’ resurrection with others. They encourage us to live as witnesses of his love.

What is the main message of Thursday in the Octave of Easter?

Thursday in the Octave of Easter focuses on Jesus’ fulfillment of Scripture, the call to repentance, and the hope of his resurrection. It calls us to live with peace and share his message with others.