Mass Readings: April 23

First: Genesis 1:1-2:2
Resp: Psalm 104:1-2,5-6,10,12-14,24,35
Second: Romans 6:3-11
Gospel: Mark 16:1-7

VICTORY GARDEN

"In the place where He had been crucified there was a garden." –John 19:41

Holy Saturday is a unique day liturgically. During the day, there is no Mass and no Eucharist. Jesus isn't in the tabernacle; He's in the tomb. The agony and apparent defeat of the cross is etched deeply in our minds. Baptized into Jesus' death, we identify with Jesus buried in the grave (Rm 6:3-4).

There is hope in the emptiness of this day. There is a garden in Calvary (Jn 19:41). When we follow Jesus to the cross and remain with Him in His sufferings, we are able to see the garden. Those who flee the suffering of Calvary miss out on the garden. In this garden is the beginning of new hope and risen life. Also in this garden will soon be the Gardener, the risen Jesus, shining in resurrected glory (Jn 20:15).

Therefore, stay with Jesus, as did Mary Magdalene and her companions. Don't leave Him and miss out on the joys to be found in Calvary's garden.

PRAYER: Jesus, I will remain with You simply because You are "all in all" to me (1 Cor 15:28). I wait in hope for the fulfillment of Your Father's promise (Acts 1:4).
PROMISE: (none)
PRAISE: (none)