Jesus' words to Mary Magdalene in the gospel reveal the depth of his humility even in his glorious resurrection. The Risen Christ did not appear triumphant over the temple to signify his victory to everyone or humiliate those who humiliated him. Instead, he appears to Mary, the most beloved and forgiven one, alone in the garden. Jesus shares a simple heart-to-heart relationship with her, echoing the words of the Prophet Isaiah 43:1, 4. He ensures that Mary does not try to possess or love him alone by clinging to him. He says, "do not hold me... but go to my brethren and say to them, I am ascending to my Father." Thus, she must spread the good news, the joy of the resurrection, to others in the community, imperfect as they may be. So likewise, we are to learn Christ's humility, humble even in victories, willing to share the joy of Christ with others and always eager to listen to Christ, like the new converts in the first reading whose hearts were cut on hearing Peter's words.                                

PRAYER: Grant O Risen Lord, that I may become a living ciborium not merely to enclose your sacred body, but to bring you to souls. Amen