Sunday, April 18, 2021
THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER
We may have a tendency to think of repentance as a painful thing, as something to dread and avoid at all costs. After all, repentance means admitting we were wrong. It may be embarrassment, guilt, shame, or pride that makes repentance difficult. Yet you have probably experienced the joy of repentance as well, the relief of confessing your sins, the wonder of grace that flows to us in forgiveness. You may be holding on to a dark secret or a stubborn grudge. Bring your heavy burdens to the Lord today. He has forgiven you and has called you His beloved child.
READINGS
First Reading: Acts 3:11–21
(After healing a lame beggar, Peter proclaims repentance and forgiveness to the crowd.)
Psalm
Psalm 4
Epistle Reading: 1 John 3:1–7 (God has loved us and called us His children.)
Gospel Reading: Luke 24:36–49 (Jesus appears to His disciples and sends them out with a message to proclaim repentance and forgiveness to all nations.)
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Let us pray. O God, through the humiliation of Your Son, You raised up the fallen world. Grant to Your faithful people, rescued from the peril of everlasting death, perpetual gladness and eternal joys; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Amen.