Today at the Mass for the children of the parish elementary school, the gospel reading is taken from John 20, the scene on Easter morning when Mary Magdalene encounters the risen Jesus. As part of the encounter, Jesus says to Mary: “Stop holding on to me.” What could those words mean? What is Jesus trying to tell Mary?
In part, I think Jesus is telling Mary that the “old Jesus” – the one she knew – has been raised from death into a new life. While it is hard to think of the “new Jesus” when Jesus is truly God. But remember He is also truly human. Standing there in front of Mary is new life, the newness of life that awaits us.
St. Paul told the people of Rome that if we have been baptized in Christ then we are promised the newness of life, but in the same letter he also tells them that they can’t hold onto things from the past that would keep them from the new life.
I think Jesus understands that Mary’s comfort zone is the Jesus she knew, the One she depended on – and as good as that is – as great as that is – there is a newness of life awaiting with the coming of the Holy Spirit that will bring her and all believers new grace, new gifts and new life.
I hear tell that “eighth grade-itis” has come upon the senior class of the school. They are ready for the school year to conclude – but also ready for the new life that awaits them in high school. You have worked hard and are well prepared. Hold onto the memories and friends you have made here, but be ready to step into new opportunities and roles that await you in your new life.
That seems a very appropriate message here on the first full day of the pontificate of Pope Leo XIV. From the South Side of Chicago, to seminary, to Chiclayo Peru as priest and later Bishop, to Rome as Cardinal, and now as the 267th pope. Each step, newness of life awaited him, even as he treasured the life he was leaving behind to serve the people and the Church.
It was Jesus’ message to Mary. It is Jesus’ message to us – strengthened by the grace of God, step into the newness of life
Anima una et cor unum in Deum: One mind and one heart intent upon God
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