Blooms and Lighter Cloths

 It's Divine Mercy Sunday, and now that I've read the Diary of St. Maria Faustina, the image of it all has become a lot more real to me. I have developed a closer relationship and love for this saint of Divine Mercy. Today also depicts the image of Thomas, or doubting Thomas as he also known since he didn't believe own Jesus' resurrections until he saw Jesus in the upper room and witnessed the deep impressions of his wounds. 

What a beautiful image this feast brings. The iconic painting of the Divine Mercy image of Jesus shows one of healing, welcome, blessing, and movement. Jesus is blessing us with his hand movement slightly raised. It is all dark but he brings the light, with the rays of blood and water from his heart pouring out. The white cloth he wears is radiant, and the cloth he wears 8 days after his resurrection when Thomas meets him is removed for Jesus to show his wounds and Thomas believes.

This second Sunday of Easter reveals the outpouring of God's love, and coming towards us in his deep mercy and compassion to a wailing world. He comes in locked doors to bring about peace and breathes on the disciples for them to receive this new life of the Holy Spirit. 

How much I see things slowly unfolding, as the weather becomes warmer and the blooming of the flowers are vibrant and sends perfumes of beauty. Spring is surely in the air and when I trust in God in little ways, more and more I feel my heart feeling lighter and like these flowers, caressing the perfume of God's yoke, of his presence. 

While on our trip, we saw so many gorgeous flowers strewn about in nature, as well as in a botanical garden. The sense of spring, blooms and new life was evident. I wrote 'spring' in the sand at the beach, I saw a spring street as we were traveling from one side to another of a lovely downtown park. As I was driving on my way to Confession yesterday, I saw so many glorious flowers and colors on the edge of the road near roving green hills. And as I was waiting for the priest to come, I was admiring some of the flowers in the courtyard. He came out and saw me noticing the flowers and said, 'Spring is here'.

Today I was shopping for some lighter clothes for these spring and upcoming summer months, to replenish some things. And just to be in a store again, I admit was also inspiring. The variety of clothes on the racks with lighter material, brighter patterns and floral designs was so nice as I feel like I've been wearing my big winter jacket and boots for months on end. 

Reading former letters from my dear sister's old friend, I remember at the end of her letter she wrote about the 'summer months and wearing lighter cloth!' And as I was looking for lighter cloth in some new and fun clothes, I also came to mind Jesus' cloth from the tomb being away and removing some of his cloth to show the disciples and Thomas his sacred wounds.

I love the Easter season, and I love this time of spring where everything is blooming and things are in anticipation. I love that I was able to rest during my spring break and feel a renewed sense of inspiration, gratitude and perspective after some time. Easter is here, the doors are unlocked, and His cloth springs meaning.