Tuesday of Easter Week, 23rd April 2019

Peter was preaching after the Holy Spirit came down on the disciples. He explained that this Pentecost gift had been prophesied by Joel.  Peter wanted the people to know that this was all the hand of God. It was God who had made Jesus Lord and Messiah — the same Jesus whom they had crucified. The people were filled with remorse, but Peter had good news for them.  Peter told the people to repent, to change their minds about Jesus and believe in his resurrection. Repentance and baptism would bring the gift of the Holy Spirit to all whom God called. This invitation included Gentiles as well as Jews and about 3000 were baptized that day.

Mary was weeping at the empty tomb as she thought someone had stolen Jesus’ body. The two angels in the tomb had asked why she was weeping and then another man asked her the same thing. Thinking it was the gardener, Mary explained again but then she heard her name, “Mary” and recognized the voice of Jesus. Then Mary tried to cling to Jesus. She may have been thinking that all would be the same as it was. But Jesus made it clear that he would be going to his Father and Mary should tell the others about her encounter with Jesus. Do we take time to listen for Jesus to call our name? And when Jesus calls our name, do we run to share this experience with others?

Lord, help me to listen for Your voice.