April 21, 2025 // Monday in the Octave of Easter
Read the Word // Open your Bible to today’s Gospel: Matthew 28:8-15
Reflect on the Word //
Why do I do this to myself?
Still I continue to pack, and write, and return emails, and run errands all in preparation for the big trip. I was supremely confident that the Lord had invited me to follow Him on this particular adventure but as the big day approached I had to admit, it was a lot. It’s a predictable pattern, not only when it comes to travel but in daily life. I love what I do but it can be stressful. I enjoy many close friendships, but relationships can be challenging. My little studio is peaceful and perfectly decorated, but it can be lonely too. Two things can be true at once.
I think the both/and we witness in the Gospel today normalizes this tension. “Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went away quickly from the tomb, fearful yet overjoyed” (Matthew 28:8). You too, Mary? You know that strange and overwhelming mixture of anxiety and excitement? Love and fear? Faith and doubt?
I’m often frustrated with my lack of confidence in the Lord. He’s so generous and patient to encourage me, reassure me, when doubt and fear assail me. Even still, sometimes I wonder at how quickly I forget His love. I’m intimidated by my circumstances, locking eyes with the enemy instead of my Savior.
But there is Good News in this Gospel. The Marys didn’t have perfect faith when they went to announce to the disciples that the tomb was empty. They did it afraid. They ran despite their raging emotions and Jesus met them on the way.
Just keep going, sister. Take the next right step, do what love requires in this moment, and you can be confident of this: Jesus will meet you along your way too.
Relate to the Lord // How can you take the next small step of faith today, no matter how you’re feeling?
Beth Davis is a lover of Jesus, a retired youth minister, the Director of Formation for Blessed is She. She is passionate about teaching women how to develop an intimate relationship with Jesus in prayer through writing, speaking, and mentorship. Her favorite things include being the favorite aunt to her five niece and nephews, making friends everywhere she goes, and whatever book she’s currently reading.
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