John 20: 19-23

Later on that day, the disciples had gathered together, but, fearful of the Jews, had locked all the doors in the house. Jesus entered, stood among them, and said, “Peace to you.” Then he showed them his hands and side.

The disciples, seeing the Master with their own eyes, were exuberant. Jesus repeated his greeting: “Peace to you. Just as the Father sent me, I send you.”

Then he took a deep breath and breathed into them. “Receive the Holy Spirit,” he said. “If you forgive someone’s sins, they’re gone for good. If you don’t forgive sins, what are you going to do with them?”

Gospel Reflection

It is not accidental that the word “inspiration” has to do with drawing air into the lungs. Each breath can be inspiring, taking in the Holy Breath of God and then breathing it forth into the universe. Inspiration embodies omnipresence. Resurrection breath is everywhere—in locked rooms and closed hearts—waiting to liberate us from all that brings anxiety and alienation.

Peace is only a breath away. Today, why not practice breathing the resurrection? Take time to read these words, making them your own, “Jesus breathed on them and said, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.'” Better yet, why not personalise these words:

Jesus is breathing in my life and I am receiving the Holy Spirit.
Every breath I take opens me to inspiration. Every breath is a prayer.

Resurrection means that Jesus is everywhere, inspiring all who breathe, giving life to deadened spirits and inspiring healthy embodiment. Breathe with Jesus’ resurrection breath and receive God’s ever-living Spirit.