Go and Tell

In the gospels narratives, encounters with the risen Lord are described as transformative. During these events, those who had the opportunity to meet Jesus were transformed into very different people. The weak become stronger, the broken-hearted and hopeless grew hopeful, and the imperfect people were used to accomplish Christ’s mission in the world. When Mary Magdalene saw an empty tomb, she became bewildered and confused. She was one of Jesus’ most devoted disciples. She broke down in tears when she didn’t see Jesus’ body in the tomb. She remained and wept as Peter and John went back to the other disciples (John 20:11-18). She stayed, she wept, she met the resurrected Jesus. The encounter with Jesus gives her a profound understanding that there is life after death. It is a new revelation to her that there is hope beyond the grave. Then, she was commissioned ‘to go and tell’- spread the news of Jesus’ resurrection to others. And so, Mary hurries back into the city — probably running — brimming over with wonderful news. She left the empty tomb with a message to share, a gospel to tell. The appearance of the risen Jesus transformed Mary from a fearful, broken-hearted individual and faithful witnesses of Christ’s resurrection and saving power.  Our encounter with the risen Christ has the power to bring changes in our lives. However, in order to have such encounters in our lives, we must be available as Mary. Can we be available?