We are used to reading about the twelve disciples traveling together. This time they are missing one—later the disciples will elect a new one to complete the team. Is that a sign for us to see that when one of the disciples fails, another disciple is needed as a replacement to continue the proclamation of the Gospel? Am I that one?

Matthew 28:16-20 "When they saw Him, they fell down before Him, though some hesitated."

It was in Galilee where they first knew Jesus and, after calming the storm, they asked "Who is this man that even the wind and waves obey him?". Now they are sure this is the Risen Christ. Upon seeing Him, they prostrated themselves before Him—though some still have doubts about the man they knew and the Risen Christ they see!

It is not extraordinary to doubt. Many times doubt is necessary to discover the truth, but here, the eleven were able to recognize Him, to kneel in His presence and to doubt simultaneously.

Amazing! Don't we experience the same facts and realities? Christ the Lord understands and tolerates our weakness. He keeps loving us and trusting us as His friends who, empowered by the Holy Spirit, are sent to proclaim the Good News through our daily life, and love for all His creatures. May we say with the man who came to Jesus asking for the healing of his son: "I believe, help my unbelief" Mark 9: 23-24.

The last words of Jesus in Matthew 28:20 were, "I am with you always, to the end of the world." He doesn't want us to be afraid.

Do you really believe that He is with us today, in this hard time? May you be a witness to His presence as Living God and Man today!

Fr. Kamal