The readings focus our attention to the voice of the risen Jesus Christ. Comparing his disciples to sheep and himself to a shepherd, he says, “They recognize his voice.” He speaks to us and wants us to respond. When we hear his voice, we follow.
The Risen Jesus is not too busy to spend time with you. We are members of his crucified and risen Body. He has the time to be with us. Approach him confidently in prayer and conversation this week.
St. Thomas indeed saw the wounds of Jesus and believed. But there is an even greater blessing for us who simply trust Him — and all the truths the Church proclaims — because of the trustworthiness of the Risen One who speaks. This week let’s trust Jesus without seeing him.
“When Jesus had risen, early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons.” (Mark 16:9) Jesus chose Mary Magdalene to be the first one who saw him risen from the dead. Do you think that you are disqualified from seeing and announcing the risen Jesus because of your past ? In the light of the Risen Jesus, all these past demons make our witness that much more believable — only if we allow ourselves to be touched by the liberating hand of Christ, just as Mary Magdalene did.
As Holy Week begins, Jesus perhaps will send people to you to ask for something valuable to you. It might be your attention, time, or energy. It’s natural to resist at first. We’ve got things to do, after all. But if the interruption is from Jesus himself, listen to that voice which calmly says, “The master has need of it.” And simply let it go. You’ll be amazed what the master will do with it.