Daily Gospel Reflection for April 6, 2021

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: John 20:11-18

In this gospel passage, Mary cycles through many emotions - sorrow, longing, joy, relief, excitement… It is natural that after experiencing the greatest loss of her life, that upon realizing Jesus was actually still present to her, she clung to Him. Yet, Jesus called her to let go and take action, saying, “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” (John 20:17).

Mary obeyed. Even though she would have had to make an act of the will to let go in order to follow His command, she did it. Allowing God to lead us on the adventure of our lives requires trust and obedience. We do not understand the fullness of the plans for our lives and all of the lives we encounter on our journeys. Sometimes we are required to let go of what we cling to most closely, with confidence that it is for the better and that there is purpose in the steps we feel called to take - even if we are unsure of how it can possibly be better.

Having that level of confidence requires humility - a recognition that God has infinite knowledge and power, while we have limitations. And yet, He desires for us to participate in accomplishing His plans. Though He has the capacity to accomplish all things on His own, out of love, He invites us to play a role.

Ponder:

What might God be calling you to let go of in trust, in order to cooperate in His plans and to receive something better?

Pray:

Loving Lord, help me to be aware of what I cling to that You are inviting me to let go of with loving confidence in You, and then give me the grace to act according to Your will. Jesus, I trust in You.