The relationship between Jesus and the Father cannot be reduced to a mathematical formula; it is not an engineering problem.  It is a dynamic rather than static relationship.  It is not reducible to quantifiable precision, as we might expect in a chemistry lab.  Ultimately, we are dealing with imagery, metaphor, and analogy for the divine, which cannot be boxed up, packaged, and distributed in discrete packets of knowledge.  The gospel reading invites us to center into this dynamic relationship between the Father and the Son, God and the Word.  Once engaged, this dynamic relationship never ends, but only continues, often deepens, and typically changes.

We are sheep; Jesus is the gate for the sheepfold.  The imagery is simple and ancient.  Here there is not “heaven” but instead a place of safety and security from the world with its dangers and threats.  Even this place of safety is not entirely secure, as there are some thieves and robbers who would climb the fence, not entering through the gate.  Our only “protection” from such dangers is that we would not follow their voice.  Let us know the gate through which we enter the sheepfold and not be called away by other voices.

After Easter, the disciples come to know Jesus in the breaking of the bread.  He is present among his followers as he was prior to his death and resurrection, but now, he is present in a new way.

Of course, as Catholics, we see this clearly in the Eucharist, when we take bread, bless it, break it, and give it.  The bread broken is Christ himself.  He is our nourishment both spiritually and physically, metaphorically and actually.  When we participate in the Eucharist, we call to mind his passion, death, and resurrection.  We consume him who is the Bread of Life.

On the evening of Easter Sunday, Jesus makes his appearance to the disciples, though Thomas is absent.  It is only one week later when Jesus appears again.  During this intervening week, what did the other disciples say to Thomas?  Why was he obstinate in the face of their witness?  Thomas experienced Jesus throughout his earthly ministry and heard the eyewitness testimony of his friends.   Still, his lack of belief persisted.  Only a personal experience of the risen Christ would melt away his doubt.  Such is a model of how individuals come to faith.  Sometimes, like Thomas, despite all the testimony of believers, faith does not take root unless one personally encounters the risen Christ.

Much as it may sound surprising to us, the resurrection of Jesus seemed to be a surprise to his disciples.  May of Magdala’s first reaction is logical:  the body was stolen.  Peter and the Beloved Disciple see for themselves that the tomb is empty, but only one believes.  They did not understand the Scripture.  We are reminded that we live by faith and we seek understanding.  Easter gives us our north star, the guiding light by which we live our lives.  On this Easter morning, may we be open to the unexpected ways that God may work in our lives.

Palm Sunday is a commemoration of highs and lows, exaltation and tragedy.  We enter the church bearing palms singing Hosanna, and only minutes later we cry in unison. “Let him be crucified.”  The liturgical juxtaposition is certainly intended and representative of fickle humanity, not only during the events of Holy Week, but quite regularly, down into our modern era.  Profound themes of betrayal, trust, friendship, power and humility are present in the gospel reading from Matthew.  The example of Jesus inspires us to be true to God’s will in our own lives.  We are called to remain faithful to God, ever trusting in his wisdom and providential care.