🙏 Wednesday, April 16, 2025 – Wednesday of Holy Week
Gospel: Matthew 26:14–25
In this passage, Judas Iscariot agrees to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. During the Passover meal, Jesus reveals that one of the disciples will betray Him, leading to a moment of introspection among them.
Reflection: This moment underscores the gravity of betrayal and the fulfillment of prophecy. It invites self-examination of our own faithfulness and the ways we might unknowingly betray our values.
✝️ Thursday, April 17, 2025 – Holy Thursday: The Lord’s Supper
Gospel: John 13:1–15
Jesus demonstrates humility and service by washing the feet of His disciples, setting an example for them to follow. This act underscores the importance of serving others with love and humility.
Reflection: Jesus' act of washing His disciples' feet exemplifies servant leadership. It challenges us to lead with humility and to serve others selflessly, embodying the love that Jesus showed.
💔 Friday, April 18, 2025 – Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion
Gospel: John 18:1–19:42
This extensive passage recounts the arrest, trial, crucifixion, death, and burial of Jesus. It details the events from Jesus' betrayal by Judas to His burial in the tomb.
Reflection: Good Friday invites deep contemplation of Jesus' suffering and sacrifice. It is a solemn reminder of the cost of redemption and the depth of God's love for humanity.
🌌 Saturday, April 19, 2025 – Holy Saturday (Easter Vigil)
Gospel: Mark 16:1–7
In this passage, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome visit Jesus' tomb and find it empty. An angel tells them that Jesus has risen and instructs them to inform the disciples.
Reflection: The empty tomb signifies the triumph of life over death. It marks the beginning of a new covenant and offers hope for eternal life through the Resurrection.
🌅 Sunday, April 20, 2025 – Easter Sunday
Gospel: John 20:1–9
Mary Magdalene discovers the empty tomb and informs Peter and John, who find the burial cloths but no body. They begin to understand that Jesus has risen from the dead.
Reflection: The Resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian faith. It affirms Jesus' victory over death and offers believers the promise of new life.
✨ Monday, April 21, 2025 – Monday in the Octave of Easter
Gospel: Matthew 28:8–15
Mary Magdalene and the other Mary encounter the risen Jesus, who instructs them to tell the disciples to go to Galilee. Meanwhile, the guards are bribed to spread a false story about Jesus' body being stolen. Daily Mass Readings+2Gospel Today Catholic+2Catholic Daily Readings+2
Reflection: This passage highlights the joy of encountering the risen Christ and the challenges of disbelief and deception. It encourages steadfast faith amidst opposition.
🌄 Tuesday, April 22, 2025 – Tuesday in the Octave of Easter
Gospel: John 20:11–18
Mary Magdalene weeps outside the empty tomb. She sees two angels and then Jesus, whom she initially does not recognize. Upon realizing it is Him, she goes to tell the disciples.
Reflection: Mary's encounter with the risen Jesus emphasizes the personal nature of the Resurrection. It shows that Jesus meets us in our sorrow and reveals Himself in ways we may not immediately recognize.
🙌 Conclusion
The Gospel readings from April 16 to April 22, 2025, take us through the profound journey of Holy Week into the joy of the Easter Octave. They invite reflection on themes of betrayal, sacrifice, service, and the transformative power of the Resurrection. Engaging with these scriptures deepens our understanding of faith and encourages us to live out the teachings of Christ in our daily lives.