April 7, 2024 - Quasimodo Geniti Sermon

Old Testament: Ezekiel 37:1–14
Psalm: Psalm 33; antiphon: v. 6
Epistle: 1 John 5:4–10
Gospel: John 20:19–31
Introit: Psalm 81:1, 7a, 10, 16b; antiphon: 1 Peter 2:2a
Verse: Matthew 28:7b; John 20:26a, c

The Wounds of Christ Give Us Life
 
“For there are three that testify: the Spirit and the water and the blood” (1 John 5:7). These three point to Christ and flow from Christ. Jesus shows His disciples His hands side, from which blood and water flowed, saying “Peace be with you.” He presents the wounds which turn our fear to gladness and which restore us to the Father. Jesus breathes on His disciples and says, “Receive the Holy Spirit” (John 20:23). His breath, His words are Spirit and life. They raise up our dry, dead bones and give us new and everlasting life (Ezek. 37:1–14). Christ now gives His ministers to speak His forgiving, Spirit-filled words to the penitent in His stead. Our Lord continues to come to His people, presenting His wounds to us in the Sacraments of water and blood. He bids us to touch His side at His table, to receive His risen body and blood in true faith, that believing we may have life in His name.