Tuesday in the Octave of Easter
This Gospel presents St. John’s version of the Easter story. Mary wants to reverence the dead body of Jesus and discovers that it is missing from the tomb. She asks the gardener where the body has been taken. But the gardener turns out to be Jesus. Mary tries to resume her relationship with him as learner and friend.
But Jesus alerts her that there will be a difference now. She cannot cling to him as in the past. Instead, he gives her a new role: that of apostle. “Go to my brothers and tell them.” That is why Mary is sometimes known as the apostle to the apostles, the first to announce the Good News of Christ’s resurrection.
Mary had been one to sit at Jesus’ feet and absorb his wisdom and love. Now she was to become his messenger, a teacher in her own right. May we who have been loved by the Lord, never cease to pass on that love, filled with gratitude and faith.
Reflection: How can I be an apostle, announcing Christ, in words or example?
Reflection by Abbot Benedict Neenan, OSB
Posted in Article for Easter, Daily Reflections