We can name a lot of reasons why the risen Lord's appearances to his disciples should be chosen by the church (or more accurately by our Lady and by the Holy Spirit) as Divine Mercy Sunday. We think of the apostles as heroes of the faith because of how they ended up, but this is a reminder of how God loves us too much to leave us defined by our worst moments.
The doubt of Thomas which forms a major theme of today's gospel reading is by no means the most extreme offense of his followers which the resurrected Christ forgives. Peter's denial and the abandonment of many of them come to mind. I am convinced that Judas' betrayal could even have been forgiven, and I have heard that the Orthodox Churches honor "St. Judas." Jesus probably would have found another way to be handed over to death for our sake, but as it happened, Judas' role was central in how Jesus delivered us from our sin.
Having received God's mercy so greatly, I should probably have a greater appreciation for the Divine Mercy devotion. I find that my role in music ministry keeps me so involved around the week of Easter that I choose not to enter into the novena, which needs to start - again, with perfect propriety - on Good Friday. But I am so grateful for the mercy of God, and I so long for all others to receive it, too.
For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world.
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