TUESDAY OF THE EASTER OCTAVE
Table of the Word
First Reading: Acts 2:36-41
Gospel: John 20:11-18
Theme: Jesus, crucified and raised, is both Lord and Messiah.
Reflection:
On this Tuesday of the Easter Octave, we accompany Mary Magdalene outside the empty tomb where folded napkin was the only thing to be seen, tears still fresh, grief: real, deep, and raw. At this point Mary came looking for the body of Jesus, clinging to the only thing she thinks was the left over of his memory. But the Risen Lord meets her in the midst of her sorrow. He gently calls her by name: "Mary." And in that moment, everything changes. She recognizes Him, not just by sight, but by the voice that knows her intimately.
Mary’s experience mirrors our own spiritual journey. There are times when we seek Jesus but fail to recognize Him. We get caught up in our grief, confusion, or expectations. Yet, Jesus patiently waits and calls us by name, just as He did with Mary. The resurrection isn't just a historical event; it's an ongoing invitation to encounter the living Christ personally.
Meanwhile, in Acts, Peter's words pierce the hearts of his listeners. His message is clear and bold: Jesus, crucified and raised, is both Lord and Messiah. The people are cut to the heart and ask, "What are we to do?" This is the Easter question: what do we do now that we know Jesus is risen?
Peter's answer is also ours: "Repent and be baptized... and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." Easter calls us not just to celebrate, but to respond - to live differently because Jesus lives. As we keep gpong with the joy of Easter, may we never forget that God's hand is in every every event of our lives.
+ May the Lord bless His Words in our hearts. Amen.
© The ARCHIVE 22042025
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