He saw and he believed

 Easter Sunday, Year B - 4th April 2021

Gospel John 20: 1–9

It was very early on the first day of the week and still dark, when Mary of Magdala came to the tomb. She saw that the stone had been moved away from the tomb and came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved. ‘They have taken the Lord out of the tomb,’ she said, ‘and we don't know where they have put him.’

So Peter set out with the other disciple to go to the tomb. They ran together, but the other disciple, running faster than Peter, reached the tomb first; he bent down and saw the linen cloths lying on the ground, but did not go in. Simon Peter who was following now came up, went right into the tomb, saw the linen cloths on the ground, and also the cloth that had been over his head; this was not with the linen cloths but rolled up in a place by itself. Then the other disciple who had reached the tomb first also went in; he saw and he believed. Till this moment they had failed to understand the teaching of scripture, that he must rise from the dead.

Reflection from St Beuno's Outreach

I try to prepare myself for prayer by becoming still, by entrusting myself into the care of the Lord and to the guidance of the Spirit.

I note how I am feeling, and how I am approaching the Lord on his day of Resurrection. Perhaps I would like to begin with praise.

Then I move to what I am most in need of at the moment.

I speak honestly...

After I have read this Gospel passage slowly a few times, I may like to pray using my imagination.

With Mary, I might go to the tomb. Why does she go while it is still dark? What is compelling her – me – to be with the Lord’s body?

I may ponder my desire. We see the stone rolled away and I note Mary’s reaction – is it excitement, fear, distress?

What am I hearing and seeing? How do I myself want to respond?

When they hear the news, Peter and John run to the tomb – do I run with them? Do I step into the empty tomb with them?

If so, what is striking me as I enter, and what it is like to be there? I might wish to touch or pick up the cloths.

Like John, does this lead to an affirmation of faith for me?

I may wish to conclude my prayer by remaining in the quiet of the tomb when the others have gone. I consider how I am feeling and ponder, perhaps, a new, deeper understanding of the Lord’s love for me.

I end by speaking with him from the heart.

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