A Reflection for Monday in the Octave of Easter
Find today’s readings here.
And behold, Jesus met them on their way and greeted them.
It seems counterintuitive, but when something good happens in our lives, we may sometimes feel a combination of both joy and fear. We may be grateful but also wonder: Am I worthy of this? What happens next? Especially if the news marks a big life change—perhaps a birth or an engagement, a promotion or a move—sharing that news can make it feel more real. It often means that our lives will not be as they once were.
In today’s Gospel we read that, following the news of Jesus’ resurrection, “Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went away quickly from the tomb, fearful yet overjoyed, and ran to announce the news to his disciples.” By contrast, the guards, who had the same information, agreed not to share it in return for “a large sum of money.” Not only that, but they were also told to lie about what happened.
The biggest difference in the two journeys? The Gospel tells us that “Jesus met [the women] on their way and greeted them.”
“Do not be afraid,” Jesus says to them. “Go tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.” With this encouragement, the Good News spreads. And yes, there may be ups and downs in their journey, but the women know that Jesus is with them. His presence fills their hearts, replaces the fear, gives them courage for what is to come. When we start out on any new journey, it is good to remember that Jesus meets us, too. He does not wait for us to find him but comes to meet us while we are already on our way.
Living a life that follows the teachings of Christ can bring great joy, but it is also a difficult path. When we are tempted to keep silent about the Good News, when we are tempted to stay silent when others need us to speak up for them, we should remember the speed and enthusiasm of Mary Magdalene and the other Mary in the moments after the Resurrection. And the speed with which Jesus met them. Do not be afraid: Remember, he comes to us, still.
