Immature Faith

Homily for Tuesday of the Octave of Easter

The recent death of Pope Francis has stirred up grief among many people. As we read the post-resurrection stories from the Gospels this week, it might be helpful to recognize that grief may be partly responsible for the inability to recognize Jesus after the resurrection.

When Jesus was crucified, even though he had spoken of it at least three times, the disciples were forced to recognize that Jesus did not fit in their expectations of him. It is clear that the apostles were expecting that Jesus would put an end to the political oppression of the Roman Empire and the establishment or return of Israel’s king. Consequently, when they don’t recognize Jesus when he appears to them after his resurrection, their lack of understanding of his mission has revealed how immature their faith in him was.

Today’s Gospel passage continues to tell the story of Mary Magdalene, one of the women who first happened upon the empty tomb. After she had gone to deliver the news to the apostles, she returned to the garden where they had laid his body. She mistakes Jesus for a gardener and asks if he had been involved in moving his body. At this point, Jesus simply speaks her name – Mary. With this single word, Jesus tells her that their relationship has changed. She must come to recognize that her love for him has been elevated to a different plane. She can no longer cling to him. Her love for him must not be dependent on human sight, touch, and hearing. She must come to believe in his presence even after she can no longer see him, feel his touch, or hear him speak.

Jesus is still present with us. This is especially true in the Eucharist. As he comes to us in communion, he asks us the same question that he asks Mary, “For whom are you looking?” He is present with us and waits for us to seek him. When we do, he will most certainly allow us to find him. Let us never forget that he has called each of us by name.