Reflection for the Seventh Week of Easter, May 21, 2023

Phyllis Chandler, Notre Dame Associate

 Rejoice to the extent that you share in the sufferings of Christ,
so that when his glory is revealed you may also rejoice exultantly.
– 1 Peter 4:13

The scripture readings for this Sunday are filled with Jesus’ promise of eternal life.

Along with this hope, however, we are cautioned that remaining true to God’s call may mean that we must endure pain and suffering just as Jesus did.

In the second reading, Peter says:  “Rejoice to the extent that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that when his glory is revealed, you may also rejoice exultantly.  If you are insulted for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.”  And later: “whoever is made to suffer as a Christian should not be ashamed but glorify God because of the name.”

John’s gospel reminds Jesus’ followers (and us) that, although he is returning to the Father, they have glorified him – and his father – by keeping his word and will receive God’s promise of everlasting life.

As we near the end of the Easter season, let us renew our willingness to share fully in the “Body of Christ,” not only in the joy of the Resurrection, but also in the “weight of the wood” to the crucifixion.