Solemnity of Easter Saturday April 17, 2004 Scripture: Acts 4:13-21; Mark 16:9-15 Reflection: “Go out to all the world and proclaim the Good News.” - Mark 16:15 In our readings today Jesus is on the move making his presence known. As he goes along he meets everyone in the ordinary places in their lives, in the ordinary humanness of themselves. Mary recognizes him because he speaks to her heart. Her heart is open and ready and filled with love and compassion. For the others Jesus has to break through their stubbornness and disbelief. He chides them for not being open to the new and unexpected, for that is what the resurrection is. Yet he meets them in the ordinary daily mess of their lives and fills them with peace and love. They must see his presence in one another and in the miracles and beauty of their own world, not cling to the old. Today we, too, are challenged to go out and proclaim the good news, but first we must open our own hearts. We must begin to see the light of the resurrection in ourselves. We must see the beauty, the gifts, and love that Jesus sees in us. If our hearts are open to this, then, we too will be able to “Go out and proclaim the good news to the whole world.” We can be messengers of peace, forgiveness, love, and bearers of hope. Bringing the good news is saying that God is simple, God is love, God is beauty. Suggested Action: Today recognize the beauty of one gift in your heart and use it to spread the good news. Spend time tonight thanking God for the gift you used today. Sr. Cecilia Marie Tippen, IHM Scranton, Pennsylvania