Identity, Integrity, Quality, Agility, Subtlety, Impassibility, and Clarity: these are the seven characteristics or qualities of a glorified body as enumerated by St. Thomas Aquinas. All seven of them can be determined from the appearance stories which take place after the Resurrection, particularly the stories of Luke and John.
By identity we mean that the glorified body will possess its original identity because it will be united with the soul. By integrity we mean that the glorified body will be whole and entire. By quality we mean that it will display itself as in the “prime” of life or as at its best. By Agility, we mean that it will be able to move about wherever it wills in an instant. By Subtlety, we mean that it will be able to pass through sold walls or objects. By Impassibility we mean that the glorified body will not experience hurt, disease of pain in any form. Finally, Clarity means that the body will shine.
When Jesus appears to the disciples gathered in the Upper Room, he demonstrates most if not all of these qualities. While all of the qualities are important, the one that captures my attention is Impassibility. Life after death will be a life free of sorrow, pain, tears, and frustration. For those of us who live with pain because of chronic illness, the thought of a life without pain is definitely something which offers me hope in the Resurrection.
It is interesting to note that despite not being subject to pain, Jesus does bear the wounds of crucifixion. His wounds are part of his identity. In addition they give testimony to the fact that he has undergone a redemptive sacrifice for all humankind.
Scars are part of who we are as humans. They inhabit both our bodies and our minds. They can be regarded as badges of honor for they signal that we too have undergone a passion of sorts. At the same time we can live with the assurance that we will no longer experience the pain that was associated with those scars.
Lord, you triumphed over sin and death;
be present in our midst with your eternal life.
Come to us with your untiring strength;
and reveal in our lives the loving-kindness of God.
You alone can reconcile men and create a new spirit within them;
end the conflicts that divide our world.
Deepen our faith in your final victory;
let us find strength in the hope of your coming.
Fr. Lawrence Jagdfeld, O.F.M., Administrator