From Head to Heart: Encountering the Risen Lord

About this sermon

The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/040826.cfm Father Mark Baron, MIC, begins by explaining how the Easter Octave reveals not only the truth of the Resurrection, but the importance of a personal encounter with the Risen Christ. He contrasts St. Mary Magdalene encountering Christ in the garden and the disciples encountering Christ on the road to Emmaus, showing two paths: one led by the heart, the other by the mind. Mary’s heart longs for Jesus, yet her vision must be elevated, while the disciples struggle to understand until Christ opens the Scriptures and sets their hearts on fire. Father Mark teaches that knowledge and love must work together. True faith requires both intellect and will, leading the soul into deeper communion with God. He explains that Christ is no longer bound by space and time, but now meets us in a new and intimate way through the Eucharist. Father Mark emphasizes that this is the very pattern of the Mass: the Word proclaimed, understanding formed, hearts ignited, and Holy Communion fulfilled. Here, we encounter the Risen Lord just as the disciples did — in the breaking of the bread.

Topics

• Resurrection