Today is the 1st Thursday of Easter Week. So much as happened in such a short amount of time. It was just a week ago today that Christ instituted the Holy Mass with the Eucharist at the Last Supper.
In the Gospel of Luke we hear that the breaking of bread a week later revealed the Risen Lord before his disciples. We are His witnesses. As witnesses we are called to spread the Good News, the truth that sins are forgiven, that we are loved, and that whatever suffering and afflictions this world places upon us, we are not alone. For this too shall pass.
So often we hear people ask Why me, Lord? I believed. I did all that you asked, and yet here I am struggling, while the wicked live lavish lives. Why me, Lord? I prayed to you night and day, yet my child still died! Why? How I wish I had an answer. In suffering, there are lessons and growth. That much I know. In grief there is closure. It really doesn’t make much sense from a human perspective. God seems indifferent to our suffering. Poor in material possessions does not make a person poor. A body that is twisted in pain does not make a person useless. Everything has a purpose, even when we cannot understand. I know that really doesn’t help in our darkest of hours as we weep for our dead. It soounds like spouting nonsense to those in pain. It doesn’t seem to help, does it? When we look at the lives of the Saints, we begin to understand. That which doesn’t kill you makes you stronger in faith.
The Octave of Easter has almost come to a close, but not the Easter Season. Life brings to us that which we seek. If you seek happiness even in sadness, you will find happiness. If you seek peace even in suffering, you will find peace. And if you wallow in self-loathing, misery will be your closest companion. Attitude is everything. May His spirit be with you now and always.
Meatball Sub Casserole
1 Yellow Bell Pepper
1 can (8 count) Southern Homestyle Biscuits
16 oz frozen Italian Meatballs
1 (24 oz) jar Marinara Sauce
Red Pepper Flakes to taste
2 cups Italian Cheese Blend
Heat oven to 350 degrees.
Stem bell pepper, remove seeds and dice. Place peppers in a skillet with just a splash of oil, sauté until tender. Set aside.
Separate dough into 8 biscuits. Cut each biscuit into 6 pieces; place in large bowl. Add meatballs, sautéed bell pepper and marinara sauce; stir until well coated.
Pour into ungreased 13-inch by 9-inch (3-quart) glass baking dish. Sprinkle Italian Cheese Blend evenly over top.
Place in the heated oven to bake for about 30 minutes or until biscuit pieces are puffed and cheese is melted and golden brown.
Serve with a simple salad and enjoy.
O LORD, our Lord,
how glorious is Your name over all the earth!
What is man that You should be mindful of him,
or the son of man that You should care for him?
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