TODAY’S GOSPEL READING
21 APRIL, 2025
Matthew 28:8-15
Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went away quickly from the tomb,
fearful yet overjoyed,
and ran to announce the news to his disciples.
And behold, Jesus met them on their way and greeted them.
They approached, embraced his feet, and did him homage.
Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid.
Go tell my brothers to go to Galilee,
and there they will see me.”
While they were going, some of the guard went into the city
and told the chief priests all that had happened.
The chief priests assembled with the elders and took counsel;
then they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers,
telling them, “You are to say,
‘His disciples came by night and stole him while we were asleep.’
And if this gets to the ears of the governor,
we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.”
The soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed.
And this story has circulated among the Jews to the present day.
THE GOSPEL OF THE LORD!
REFLECTION
In this passage, we see two contrasting responses to the resurrection of Jesus. The women, filled with fear and joy, run to share the good news, while the guards and religious leaders choose deception to suppress the truth. It reminds us that when faced with divine truth, we can either receive it with faith or reject it out of fear and self-interest. The resurrection challenges us to embrace hope and boldly proclaim Christ, no matter the opposition.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, thank You for the power of Your resurrection and the hope it brings. Give us hearts like the women—full of joy and courage to share Your truth. Help us reject fear and deceit, and instead stand firmly in Your light. Strengthen our faith so we may always choose Your truth, even when it’s difficult. Amen
