After the Sabbath had ended, various women went to the tomb to anoint the body of Jesus. There, they discovered that the large stone, which had covered the tomb’s entrance, was rolled away. An angel appeared to them and said, “Do not be amazed! You seek Jesus of Nazareth, the crucified. He has been raised; he is not here. Behold, the place where they laid him.”
Mark 16: 1-20
Today is a day of celebration! Death could not keep a grip on our Lord. Darkness was pierced by light, and a most tender song of Alleluia rose in the chest of humanity. Mary Magdalene is known as the apostle to the apostles, as she was the first to witness the resurrection. Not recognizing the Lord until he spoke her name, she made great haste to tell the others of his return.
We can relate so intimately to Mary Magdalene here. We hear the promise of eternity and the joy of the gospel every day, and yet so often remain indifferent until we let ourselves experience a personal invitation. But our names are forever on the lips of our Lord in steady invitation, and a life with him is always personal.
We, too, can be an apostle to the apostles: sounding the joyful alarm far and wide that he, who loves us so totally, has conquered the grave and opened the gates of Heaven. We are welcomed home into eternity, by his mercy and grace. We walk confidently in this truth, for “We are an Easter people, and Alleluia is our song!”
Jesus, thank you for allowing me to accompany you in a particular way this past week. You remain constant, though each day seems to bring new uncertainties. Thank you for drawing me nearer to you and to the familiarity of your love. Help me to hear you call my name, realizing a newness to your resurrection with every breath I take, and sharing your goodness relentlessly with others. Thank you for your sacrifice and for choosing me again and again. Continue to draw me near, O Lord. Today and always.
Anonymous
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