PRAYER / Lenten Reflection 2005 Easter Saturday, April 2, 2005

Both readings highlight how when we meet the risen Christ we are given the courage to speak. Peter and John are told by the religious authorities never to mention the name of Jesus. Peter asks, Shall we obey you or God? ... "for we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard." Mary of Magdala too, the first to receive an appearance of Jesus raised, is sent to tell the good news. She is disbelieved by the men. When Jesus himself appears to them "he upbraided them for their lack of faith and stubbornness." His final commission is given to us all: "Go into all the world and proclaim the good news to the whole creation."

Ask for the courage to speak good (not threatening) news to people and to the whole creation. How can you -- like Francis -- preach to the animals, the flowering trees, the sky and fields? How can you work for the preservation of clean air, access to clean water for all? What courage and energy will you need from the Risen Lord? Tell him.

Jesus, clear out our lack of faith, our stubbornness and help us to open to good news. Give us courage to defend and to use wisely your gifts of creation, even if we have to counter the culture.

Contributor: Sister Rea McDonnell

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