April 22, 2025 // Tuesday in the Octave of Easter

Read the Word // Open your Bible to today’s Gospel: John 20:11-18

Reflect on the Word // 

A scared cry pierces the dark stillness: a nightly call from my three year old, troubled again by his nightmares. The blankets next to me shuffle as my husband swings his legs out, padding to our little boy’s side. I hear mumbled prayers and intermittent sniffles; I smile as I imagine his little hand being enveloped in his daddy’s. 

My son recognizes his father and knows he’s safe. The presence of fatherly love calms his fears. That childlike trust is very simple and yet, I wonder if I’m that acutely aware of the love and care of the Lord. 

Jesus, show me You. As Saint Mary Magdalene, when she was searching in the garden, was at first unaware she was speaking with her Lord, so we miss Him sometimes too. We can pray to recognize Him in the midst of life. 

Make me aware of Your presence in my past. When we’re frustrated at how a situation turned out or a relationship went awry. When we blame ourselves for hurts caused. When the past’s painful stories and heartaches tug us downwards. Let’s pray to remember He’s been beside us, desiring to hold our hands and heal our hearts.

Make me aware of Your presence in my now. In the joys and frustrations. When we fail or thrive. In the company of friends, in the delight of our family. In seemingly hopeless moments or the overwhelm of daily life. In traffic, burnt dinners, and endlessly sick children. In the crosses we’ve had thrust upon us, we beg Him to hold our hands and keep us upright. 

Make me aware of Your presence in my future. We ask Him to take our fears of what may come. For the futures of our children and others we love. He wants to help us unclench our fists from carefully plotted plans and to remind us that our ways are not His ways. I’m not made for this world but for the one He’s prepared for me. May He hold our hands and lead us forward.

In every situation of our lives, may we be looking for Christ, so we don’t mistake Him for the gardener. Let us know He is there, holding our hands.

Relate to the Lord // Which prayer above resonated with you most? Make it your own, meditating on it today.