Gospel: Mk 16:9–15
After Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary of Magdala, from whom he had driven out
seven demons. She went and reported the news to his followers, who were now mourning and weeping. But when they
heard that he lived, and had been seen by her, they would not believe it. After this he showed himself in another
form to two of them, as they were walking into the country. These men also went back and told the others, but they did not believe them.
Later Jesus showed himself to the Eleven while they were at table. He reproached them for their unbelief, and hardness of
heart, in refusing to believe those who had seen him after he had risen. Then he told them, “Go out to the whole world and proclaim
the Good News to all creation.
Reflection:
This is a recapitulation of Jesus’ resurrection appearances. We have the
impression that the news is not accepted easily by the disciples. That is why the
resurrection appearances are many and with various peoples. It is too big an
event that the mind needs time to adjust before it can give space to this
new reality that inserted itself to human reality. But the Lord could not go
on appearing until they believe. That is why He appears in this gospel to
all when they are at table, rebuke their unbelief, and give them a command.
They have to take over now that He is near in going back to the Father. It
is time that He entrusts to them His unfinished work. It will be challenging times
ahead for the disciples. A great responsibility is given them. The joy of the
resurrection gives way to somber reality.
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