Easter Tuesday 


Acts 2:36-41 

Psalm 32(33):4-5,18-20,22

John 20:11-18


NEVER CEASE TO PROCLAIM THE JOY OF EASTER 


I have always found the scene of Jesus appearing to Mary Magdalene to be deeply moving. In that moment, Jesus Christ, the risen Lord, stands before her, and she mistakes him for a gardener who has taken away the body of Jesus. Reflecting on today’s gospel story, we see that Mary Magdalene mourns for a while before looking into the tomb. When the angel asks her what she is seeking, her grief and sorrow cloud her vision, preventing her from seeing the bigger picture—that Jesus is alive, the Master Gardener, the creator of all seeds, plants, flowers, and trees. Often, we too allow distress, worries, and deep concerns to overshadow the miracles happening around us. We sometimes let these burdens obscure our perception of God’s presence in our lives.


We must ask ourselves: what are we truly seeking? Are we pursuing earthly desires or aiming for eternal life? When we pray and encounter God, what do we hope to see? Our experiences with Jesus should fill us with joy and true freedom to proclaim the gospel without fear, as we see in today’s first reading. The sermon of Peter, inspired by the Holy Spirit, led to the addition of 3,000 new believers. The Acts of the Apostles reflect the active work of the Holy Spirit in the early Christian community. If we call upon His name, the Holy Spirit can help us share the gospel with greater joy and zeal. He listens to our prayers and responds.



In today’s gospel, at the moment of the resurrection, Jesus calls Mary Magdalene by name. This act demonstrates the profound power of hearing one's name spoken by someone who truly knows us. Imagine her reaction upon recognizing that it was Christ! 


Isaiah 49 reminds us that God has engraved our names on the palm of His hand—an enduring reminder that He will never forget us. Our names are written in the book of life, a divine assurance. When everything seems lost, when sorrow blinds us, and plans fall apart, hear Him calling your name. See your name etched on His palm. If your Friday feels dark and your silent Saturday endless, remember: Resurrection Sunday is just around the corner. Christ is truly risen. Be a true witness of the Easter proclamation!


 

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