A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Jn 20:1-2, 11-18)
Jesus said to Mary Magdalene, “Stop holding on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am going to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'” Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord,” and then reported what he told her.
Today’s Gospel is profound and places us at the moment of Christ’s resurrection, highlighting its reality and the transformative power it holds. Mary Magdalene’s encounter with the risen Jesus demonstrates the personal and intimate nature of Jesus’ relationship with any of his followers. Despite Mary’s initial confusion, Jesus calls her by name, revealing his identity and establishing a deep connection with her. Mary recognizes Jesus not through physical appearance but by the sound of her name being spoken by him. That is the true recognition of the risen Christ, which comes through personal encounter and a deepening understanding of his presence.
Lord, you appeared to Mary Magdalene after your resurrection. She obeys and becomes the first witness to you, the risen Christ, proclaiming the news to the disciples. Help me learn from her and recognize you in your desire to draw me to you. Just as Jesus entrusts Mary with the task of being a witness to the resurrection, show me how to go and proclaim the Gospel.
From the Gospel acclamation: “Tell us, Mary, what did you see on the way?
I saw the glory of the risen Christ, I saw his empty tomb.” Saint Mary Magdalene, pray for us!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.