On the Back Porch

Reading, pondering and studying God’s Word is sometimes best done “on the back porch.” Each week we will try to offer something for you and your “back porch time.”

3rd Sunday of Easter, Year B

What We Celebrate

If this Sunday’s gospel seems to be very similar to last Sunday’s scene in the Upper Room – that is because it is. Previously our account came from the Gospel of John in which the first appearance of the Risen Jesus was to Mary Magdalene followed by the gospel scene in the Upper room. This Sunday our account is from the Gospel of Luke in which the Upper Room is also the second appearance, following on the heels of the Emmaus Road account in Luke 24.

Word of the Risen Jesus is spreading within the Jerusalem community of believers, but incredulity abounds alongside a good measure of fear and anxiety. They have no category of understanding with which to grasp the Resurrection. Jesus needs them to overcome their fear, be at peace, and begin their mission to the world. As always – a lot going on. Take some time and sort through it all in the comfort of your back porch.

Full Text of the Sunday Readings

Detailed Commentary on the 3rd Sunday of Easter Gospel

Image credit: Maesta altar piece, Duccio di Buoninsegna, 1308,
Museo dell’Opera Metropolitana del Duomo, Siena | Public Domain

The Resurrection of Jesus

This Sunday we move from the Gospel of John’s account of the Upper Room post-Resurrection appearances to Luke’s account. Take a moment to follow the whole Lukan account of post-Resurrection appearances.