Tuesday, April 6, 2021

 Tuesday of the Octave of Easter

(Acts 2:36-41; John 20:11-18)

In yesterday’s first reading, Peter proclaimed the startling news of the resurrection.  In today’s he provides its meaning for his listeners.  First, Jesus’ resurrection means that he is the Lord, God’s anointed one who accepted death to save them from their sins.  Second, in response, the people must repent, that is, change their way of thinking.  Rather than look for money or pleasure as life’s goal, they are to seek eternal life by giving of themselves in loving service.  They will find example and support of how this endeavor in the Church, which they join by being baptized.  Finally, they are to accept the Holy Spirit which makes all of them equal children of God.

This process of becoming children of God is reflected in today’s gospel passage.  Jesus’ appearance to Mary proclaims his resurrection.  She must change her mind about him.  He is no longer the dead teacher, but the risen Lord.  She must no longer cling to him but proclaim him to others.  Charged with the Holy Spirit, she becomes a child of God as Jesus indicates when he says, “’I am going to my Father and your Father.’”

Today in the United States many people consider religion as only a cultural label.  They see it as no more importance than being of Irish or Italian descendance.  For them religion provides fewer advantages than being an American citizen.  Professing Easter faith turns this estimation around.  First and foremost, we are children of God and heirs to eternal life.  This classification allows us to view citizenship more highly, not less.  As God’s family, we are to cooperate with civil government which God has established to order the goods of the world. 

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