3rd Sunday of Easter: Rediscovering the Lord

04-19-2026Weekly ReflectionFr. Emmanuel Ogla, VC

Dear Friends in Christ,

The readings from Acts 2:14, 22–28, 1 Peter 1:17–21, and Luke 24:13–35 (Emmaus narrative) take us on a spiritual journey—a movement from confusion to clarity, from fear to faith, and from despair to mission. They show what the Resurrection of Jesus Christ truly does in the life of a Christian. In the first reading, Christ is proclaimed; in the second reading, Christ is the foundation of faith; in the Gospel reading, Christ is recognized in the breaking of bread.

Acts 2:14, 22–28 — The Bold Proclamation

In this reading, we see Saint Peter standing before the crowd, boldly proclaiming, “God raised Him up, releasing Him from the throes of death.” This is remarkable because this is the same Peter who once denied Jesus out of fear. Now, he speaks with courage and authority. The Resurrection transforms fearful disciples into bold witnesses and leads the people gathered to believe more in God. Peter explains that Jesus was handed over and crucified, yet death could not hold Him. God fulfilled His promise. This is not just information; it is a testimony born from an encounter he had with Jesus.

1 Peter 1:17–21 — A Call to Reverent Living

Here in the second reading, Peter speaks again, but now as a shepherd guiding the Church: “You were ransomed… not with perishable things like silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ.” The Resurrection reveals the cost of our salvation. We are not ordinary people; we are redeemed. Our lives have value because Christ paid for them. Our faith is rooted in the God who raised Jesus from the dead; therefore, we are called to live in reverence, hope, and holiness. This reading shifts us from simply believing in Easter to living Easter. Peter reminds us that we are not just saved; we are redeemed by Christ’s blood.

Luke 24:13–35 — The Road to Emmaus

Two disciples walk away from Jerusalem, discouraged and confused. Their hopes were shattered. Then the Risen Jesus joins them, yet they do not recognize Him. “We were hoping that He would be the one to redeem Israel.” Their problem was not lack of faith, but misunderstanding. Jesus responds by explaining the Scriptures, expressing His desire to help them understand Him better. He walks with them patiently, and through this, Jesus teaches us to be caring and empathetic, especially when our loved ones go through difficult times or need encouragement.

Jesus also reveals Himself in the breaking of bread, highlighting the importance of the Holy Eucharist. He shows them that in His presence there is a unique restoration of joy and hope, and through the breaking of the bread their eyes were opened. Jesus is present even when we do not recognize Him—in Scripture, in the Eucharist, and in our journey. Their sadness turns into joy, and they rush back to Jerusalem to share the news. The Emmaus disciples run back to share the news.

All three readings tell one unified Easter story: an encounter with Jesus brings transformation. The disciples on the road to Emmaus encounter Jesus, and their hearts burn within them. Peter encounters the Risen Christ and becomes bold. No one meets the Risen Jesus and remains the same. The Resurrection brings clarity to God’s plan. The Risen Jesus is still present in His Church today.

These readings invite us to reflect on personal questions: Are we like the Emmaus disciples, confused and discouraged? Are we, like Peter, called to be bold but sometimes afraid? The message of Easter is this: The Risen Christ walks with you, explains your story, feeds you with His presence, and sends you out with a purpose.

May the grace of Jesus help us to recognize Him always and reaffirm our belief and faith in Him.

Fr. Emmanuel Ogla, VC