Change

Readings for Tuesday April 6, 2010

First Reading: Acts 2:36-41
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 33
Gospel: John 20:11-18


Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you looking for?” She thought it was the gardener and said to him, “Sir, if you carried him away, tell me where you laid him, and I will take him.” Jesus said to her, “Mary!” She turned and said to him in Hebrew, “Rabbouni,” which means Teacher. Jesus said to her, “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 went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord,” and then reported what he had told her. (John 20:15-18)

Change, this is something that is hard for each of us. Many people have problems with change, this can be changes at home, school, work, etc. We have problems with change because we get very comfortable, and when that comfort or balance is shaken, we don't always react well. While there are a few exception, most people like routine and having a feeling of some sort of control over areas of their life, whenever there is change, this balance and sense of control is lost and we are left of venture into unknown territory.

In today's gospel, we see that Mary is having a difficult time with change. She was already hit hard by the death of Jesus, and now to make matters worse the body is missing! As she encounters Jesus, He tells her something very important; "Mary! ... Stop holding on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father." Jesus is telling Mary that she has to let go of how she knew Jesus and trust in Him for what is to come, because even though it is change, it is change for the better. Mary learned an important lesson in "letting go and letting God" that day.

While change is certainly difficult for each of us, we must use these times to grow in our faith. Even though we do not know what will happen as a result, we must trust that God has something even greater planned. Mary was still holding on to Jesus as she knew Him, but what she didn't realize is that by His ascension He was going to take His seat at the right hand of the Father and to send forth His spirit for all those who would believe. Christ had something greater in mind, and this is the case when we experience change in our life, Christ will bring about a greater good ... if we are willing to let go and trust Him.

Ask yourself these questions today, is there an area of your life that is experiencing change? Is there great uncertainty for the future? Is God asking you to trust in Him even more? It's time to let go, and let God.

Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, even though we have trouble with change in our lives, help us to trust in you and in your plan. Lord, you know what is best, please increase our faith so that you might follow you where ever you ask us to go. Lord, we love you and praise you. We pray for the conversion of all those who do not know you, may they be brought to your love and mercy. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.