Solemnity of Easter Monday April 12, 2004 Scripture: Acts 2:14, 22-33; Matthew 28:8-15 Reflection: As we reflect on the readings, let us think of the innate courage of Mary Magdalen and the other women as they went to the tomb. What joy these women must have felt, when Jesus revealed himself to them and commissioned them as the first evangelists to go to the apostles and tell them that he had risen. How do you think Peter reacted when Mary Magdalen, who was considered a lowly, insignificant creature, told him that she had seen the Lord? Just as Christ chose the apostles and women to assist him in the work of salvation, he has chosen you and me to help him make a difference in a world that is racked with injustice, violence, poverty, and war. What a responsible role is ours! In the words of Blessed Mother Theresa,“We are like pencils in God’s hands. God writes through us and however imperfect instruments we may be, he writes beautifully.” Suggested Action: Think about the ways we can assist the women of Iraq and Afghanistan, so that they can exhibit the courage of Mary Magdalen as they assume their role in male dominated societies. Sr. Mary Edward Loftus, IHM Forest Hills, New York