Moment of Meditation: Appearances (1 Corinthians 15:5-8)

[Jesus] appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all ... he appeared also to me.
(1 Corinthians 15:5-8)

Appearances

Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia!!

One of the greatest warning labels known to man would have to be: Objects in the rearview mirror are closer than they appear. Nowhere is that truer than at church. St. Paul reminds the Corinthians what is "of first importance" (v3)--Jesus died, rose and appeared to His disciples.

The resurrection was substantiated by numerous appearances to many people throughout the Church in the forty days between Easter and Ascension. But listen to how Paul describes Jesus' appearance to him: "Last of all, as to one untimely born" (v8).

What was the proof Paul had of the resurrected Christ? Jesus appeared to him. What is your proof of the resurrected Christ? Jesus appears to you. Every time you assemble around Word and Sacrament, Jesus is present (Matthew 18:20). This is especially seen in the Sacrament of the Altar itself as Jesus' Body and Blood are given to you with the bread and wine. Jesus appears to you every time you commune. Who can you tell about your risen Lord today? Amen.