It's What We Do and Have Always Done

My friend once relayed how startling it was to her when, after suddenly losing a close family member, her young children still needed her to feed them breakfast the next morning. Yet she rose out of bed, smiled at them, and flipped the pancakes.

There's something in the heart of a woman that spurs her to forge on in spite of grief.

I'm always amazed by the women at the tomb of Jesus. Utterly gutted, they arrive with burial spices in hand—because it's the right thing to do. Because it's what we do. They witnessed the horrific death of their Love, but instead of hiding or returning to hometowns, they did what needed to be done. Because it's what we do.

Today's Gospel (John 20:11-18) illustrates what Our Lord's response is to such loving faithfulness. We first find Saint Mary Magdalene weeping outside the tomb.

She's devastated; but she's there. She enters the tomb to find angels present and Jesus' Body absent. She's shocked; but she remains. Mary Magdalene turns, thinking the Jesus before her is the gardener. She's confused; but she presses. "Tell me where you laid him, and I will take him" (John 20:15). She's powerless; but she perseveres.

And here is where we see the gift that Our Lord grants her fidelity—the first witness of His resurrected Person. The premier comfort of knowing He is alive. She showed up for Him, and, of course, He showed up for her.

Maybe you're grieving right now. Perhaps you've realized that life doesn't stop, that you have to keep going. It's what we do—it's what we've always done. But remember the Lord's favor upon you. Remember that He is already where you are going, ready to give you everything you need.

This week, reach out to a friend who you know is suffering in spite of her continuation of life as usual. Just let her know you see her, that you appreciate her. Remind her that Christ sees her, and is right beside her, waiting to greet her with a smile.

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The Lord's favor is upon you. // @to_the_heightsClick to tweet

Lord Jesus, show up for me, please, so I can be brave and show up for You.