TUESDAY, EASTER OCTAVE
Acts 2: 36-41 Ps 33: 4-5, 18-20, 22 Jn 20: 11-18
THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF THE RESURRECTION
The passage of the first reading culminates in a powerful declaration: “God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” This statement pierces the hearts of the listeners, compelling them to ask, “What shall we do?” Peter’s response emphasizes the necessity of personal conversion and the gift of the Holy Spirit: “You must repent… you must be baptised in the name of Jesus Christ… and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” This passage highlights the call to turn away from sin, embrace new life in Christ, and join the community of believers. It is a reminder that the Gospel is not merely a message to be heard but a life to be lived.
In the Gospel, we meet Mary Magdalene at the empty tomb, weeping in grief and confusion. Her encounter with the risen Christ is deeply personal and transformative. When Jesus calls her by name, “Mary,” she recognizes Him. This moment signifies the intimate relationship Jesus shares with His followers, with us – He knows us by name and meets us in our sorrow and searching. Mary’s journey from despair to joy is a beautiful example of the transformative power of the resurrection. Her subsequent proclamation, “I have seen the Lord,” makes her the first witness to the resurrection, embodying the call to share the Good News with others.
The readings emphasize the centrality of the resurrection and its implications for us. It is the basis of Peter’s proclamation, leading to the birth of the Church; it is the source of Mary’s hope and mission. Today, we are invited to encounter the risen Christ. Have we allowed His resurrection to transform our lives? Are we, like Peter and Mary, compelled to share this life changing truth with others? The liturgy of the word challenges us to move from passive observance to active discipleship, embracing the joy and responsibility of being witnesses to the resurrection in our world today.
Response: His merciful love fills the earth.
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