Reflection for Divine Mercy Sunday (John 20:19-31)

by Fr. Long Phi Nguyen, SVD  |  04/09/2026  |  Sunday Written Reflection

“Peace be with you.”

As we continue to rejoice in the light of the Resurrection, the Church invites us to enter more deeply into the heart of Christ. The Risen Lord comes to meet us precisely where we most need Him—in our fears, in our wounds, and in our longing for peace.

On this Second Sunday of Easter, celebrated as Divine Mercy Sunday, the Gospel shows the disciples gathered behind locked doors, burdened by confusion, fear, and shame. Into that closed and anxious space, Jesus suddenly stands among them and speaks the words every human heart longs to hear: “Peace be with you.”  

In that moment, Jesus reveals what divine mercy truly looks like. He does not scold the disciples for abandoning Him, nor does He condemn them for their weakness. Instead, He meets them with compassion. He breathes His Spirit upon them and restores their courage and hope.

Then Jesus shows them His wounds—not to remind them of their failures, but to reveal the depth of His love. Those wounds become the very source of healing for the world, and from them flows the mercy that reconciles us with God. And Jesus then entrusts the Church with a sacred mission: “Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them.” Mercy, therefore, is not simply a beautiful idea to admire. It is a living gift we receive from Christ and are called to share with others.

Our late Pope Francis once reminded us, “God never tires of forgiving us; we are the ones who tire of seeking His mercy.” Divine Mercy Sunday invites us to lay down whatever burdens our hearts—sin, fear, discouragement—and allow Christ to lift us up with His healing grace.

For our parish, this Sunday is also a special moment of grace. Throughout the day, we will offer opportunities for Confession, Eucharistic Adoration, and the veneration of the relics of the saints—holy men and women who show us what God’s mercy can accomplish in a willing heart. We will conclude with a closing Mass celebrated by Bishop John P. Dolan, gathering as one family before the merciful Heart of Jesus.

May we open the doors of our hearts just as Jesus entered the locked doors of the upper room. May His mercy bring peace to our wounds, renew our faith, and strengthen our life together. On this Divine Mercy Sunday, may we trust deeply in the God whose mercy is always greater than our sins, and whose love continually leads us into new life.