In the midst of the joy and exuberance of Easter, this Sunday’s readings allow us to consider our sinfulness, our doubts and our weakness. This is not to weigh us down, but to bring us peace and encourage us to live the new life won for us.

In the First Reading from the Acts of the Apostles, Peter is gentle with those responsible for the death of the ‘Prince of life’. They must now turn back to God.

The Psalm is both a cry for help and a song of hope and trust.

John, in the Second Reading, speaks of Christ as our Advocate with the Father. Not only does he take our sins away, he fills us with God’s love.

Jesus appears to his doubting disciples in the Gospel. He reassures them by inviting them to touch him and by eating with them, before increasing their understanding and hinting at their mission.

Let us continue our Lenten journey this week, strengthened by the gift of Christ’s peace, and conscious of being his witnesses – even if, at times, we are confused and doubtful.