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This Gospel is one of the early resurrection stories. We read about Mary of Magdala going to the tomb, knowing that she would not likely be able to go into the tomb because it would be blocked by a huge stone; but she went anyway. She gets to the empty tomb and understandably believes the body has been taken away. Later she would recognize Jesus. Getting back to this story Peter, the leader and another disciple hurry to the tomb. John the youngest does not go in and he respectfully waits until Peter goes in first. They believe. Honestly, I find it strange. Just because the body is not there does not mean that it is resurrected. I suspect that Peter belief was based on what Jesus had taught him. I have often spoke about having the eyes of faith. Peter did not fully understand the significance of the resurrection, but he had enough faith and experience to recognize that Jesus had risen.

This resurrection passage describes the response to the resurrection by adults. I encourage you to see this as an opportunity to learn about what is an adult faith.

I put before you for your reflection, but I would argue that asking questions, struggling to believe is not a bad thing. Yes, we might like the surety of a child-like faith, but faith was never meant to be without struggle.

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This Gospel is an account of the last meal Jesus had with his disciples. The meal is better known as the last supper. Soon Jesus' earthly mission will be over. The disciples do not realize yet that this evening is going to take a very different turn.

I wonder what Jesus was feeling. We read that he was in agony in the garden but what was he feeling when he is having this last meal with his disciples? Did he try to tell them, to leave hints as to what were his plans? I wonder if the disciples’ sensed anything different. I suspect Jesus was probably a bit sombre. He knew he was going to have a horrible death in less than 24 hours. Did he wonder if there was another way to achieve his mission? I suspect he felt terribly alone.

This passage reminds us that although we often call upon friends and family for support in times of distress we must also recognize divine support as well. It is a reminder that we don’t have to deal with life’s struggles alone. But are we open to divine support?

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Today’s Gospel is a teaching, Gospel. Its also unusual. In most instances the person seeks out Jesus or recognizes him before asking for something. I suspect the woman in this story wanted to be anywhere else but there. She was not only embarrassed but terrified. Without Jesus’ intervention she faced a painful death. She has a brief but powerful conversation with Jesus. And that is it! We don’t know who this woman was. What’s her story or what happened to her after this experience.

What about the men who were prepared to stone her. Some of them may have known her, after all they did live in a small town. The Scribes and Pharisees were educated and well established in their community. How is it they missed being compassionate towards her and/or fail to recognize the injustices?