Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to saint John 20, 11-18
Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went away quickly from the tomb,
fearful yet overjoyed,
and ran to announce the news to his disciples.
And behold, Jesus met them on their way and greeted them.
They approached, embraced his feet, and did him homage.
Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid.
Go tell my brothers to go to Galilee,
and there they will see me.”
While they were going, some of the guard went into the city
and told the chief priests all that had happened.
The chief priests assembled with the elders and took counsel;
then they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers,
telling them, “You are to say,
‘His disciples came by night and stole him while we were asleep.’
And if this gets to the ears of the governor,
we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.”
The soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed.
And this story has circulated among the Jews to the present day.
Don’t hold on to me
1. Weeping. Mary is found crying outside the tomb. Her tears come from focusing on what she has lost, unable to recognize the Risen Christ because she doesn’t lift her gaze. Sometimes, we become preoccupied with our sorrow and what brings us pain, almost to the point of dwelling on it unnecessarily. Even when there is a chance to move forward, we keep fixating on our disappointments or losses, missing the new possibilities that are before us. Instead of mourning what’s already over, try to embrace the new opportunities life presents. Let go of what disturbs your peace and brings you hurt. Dry your tears and look up to see clearly.
2. She didn’t recognize Him. Often, we look at things without truly seeing or understanding them, and this can lead to sadness. It’s faith that opens our eyes and helps us see life differently. At first, Mary didn’t realize it was Jesus in front of her because her sadness and worry clouded her vision. When we’re consumed by our own pain, it’s hard to see beyond it. Our struggles and anxieties can blind us to the blessings in our lives. That’s why it’s important to calm ourselves and really listen. Learning to listen helps us recognize Jesus in our lives. When you hear His voice, you’ll find peace and security. Don’t let your tears and troubles narrow your vision.
3. Proclaim. Jesus tells Mary Magdalene to go and share what she has witnessed and heard. He wants her to announce His resurrection. Mary, once known for her struggles, is transformed into a missionary, a messenger of hope. She moves from grief to purpose. Don’t linger at the tombs of your past, holding onto what only brings you sadness. Let go of things that keep you in sorrow. Allow yourself to encounter Life, to see the new possibilities before you, and to live fully, helping others as well. Declare that death is not the final word. Proclaim that there’s hope, even in the darkest situations. As long as you have a mission and a heartbeat, much is still possible. May this Easter be a time for you to rise up, discover that things can change, and find new joy as you look at life through God’s eyes. Happy Easter! Christ is alive, and so are you!
Remember that something good is on the way!
May God bless you and be with you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
