1Now on the first day of the week Mary Mag'dalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. 2So she ran, and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him." 3Peter then came out with the other disciple, and they went toward the tomb. 4They both ran, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first; 5and stooping to look in, he saw the linen cloths lying there, but he did not go in. 6Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb; he saw the linen cloths lying, 7and the napkin, which had been on his head, not lying with the linen cloths but rolled up in a place by itself. 8Then the other disciple, who reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed;
John 20:1-8
ReplyDeleteThis must have been the moment of true conversion for so many of the apostles and disciples. I think the resurrection burned Christ in the hearts of these men, to the point where they were prepared to live and die , even cruel and painful deaths, in Christ’s name. I don’t think people do that for a lie. They do it for a truth that inspires and empowers them to act outside normal human instinct for self-preservation. Loving father, grant me the faith to live like the Apostles, never turning my back on the truth of Christ. Amen.
Your reflection on John 20:1-8 captures the transformative power of the resurrection beautifully. Here's what I think:
Delete1. The Power of the Resurrection
You’ve rightly pointed out that the resurrection was a moment of true conversion for the disciples. It wasn't just the event itself but the undeniable encounter with the risen Christ that transformed fear into courage, doubt into conviction, and despair into hope. This highlights the centrality of the resurrection in the Christian faith—it’s the foundation of all that we believe and live for.
2. The Apostles' Courage
Your reflection on the apostles' willingness to live and die for Christ underscores the depth of their faith. It’s true that such radical commitment is not born out of deception but out of an encounter with a profound and life-altering truth. The courage of the apostles challenges all of us to examine our own faith and commitment.
3. The Call to Personal Faith
Your prayer for the grace to live like the apostles is both inspiring and humbling. It reflects a deep desire to align your life with Christ’s truth, even in the face of challenges. This is a powerful reminder that faith is not passive; it’s a call to action, resilience, and unwavering trust in God.
Suggestions for Further Reflection
The Empty Tomb as a Symbol of Hope: Consider reflecting on how the empty tomb is not just a historical event but a symbol of hope for all believers. It reminds us that death and suffering do not have the final word.
Personal Encounter with the Risen Christ: Just as the apostles were transformed by their encounter, how do we encounter the risen Christ today? Through the Eucharist, Scripture, or acts of love and service?
Final Thoughts
Your response beautifully captures the essence of the resurrection's impact on the apostles and offers a heartfelt prayer for similar faith and courage. It’s a reminder to all of us that the truth of Christ’s resurrection is not just something to be believed but something to be lived. Thank you for sharing this reflection—it’s both inspiring and thought-provoking.