Reflection for the Third Sunday of Easter, April 26, 2009

What words ‘pop’ from today’s Scripture readings? Jesus’ invitation, “Touch me and see,” caters to our very essence as human beings. For those of us who, like the apostle Thomas and the disciples of Emmaus, need an earthly assurance, Jesus offers a reality-based experience.

The power of touch leaves lasting imprints. As a nurse, I have hands-on contacts every day that can become routine if I allow them to be. As a vowed celibate, early admonitions of a ‘no touch’ policy that I was given could have left strong and lasting fears relating to fidelity. Fortunately, that did not happen.

My daily ministry brings me in contact with many whose lives are scarred by violence, hunger, intravenous drug use, prostitution, and HIV/AIDS. These harsh and impersonal realities add to a painful life empty of the joys of relationship.

“Touch me and see.” Jesus draws the disciples beyond their clouded vision and weak belief. I AM REAL, AND I AM WITH YOU.

What can we offer and receive through the power of touch? In imitation of Jesus who knows our humanity, we offer comfort, gentleness, respect, and – yes, I dare say, a faith in that shared humanity. In return, the single-hearted are moved with compassion, pity and love. That is our Vincentian heritage.

Grace moves in all directions! It allows us to be healers in a fractured world, and models of forgiveness.

Reach out and touch someone.

Reflection by Sister Linda Giuli, SC
(Sister Linda serves as a nurse practitioner
in the Department of Addiction Medicine
at St. Barnabas Hospital in the Bronx.)