The gospel for Monday of the octave of Easter is taken from Matthew 28, chapter 8 through the 15th verse. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went away quickly from the tomb, fearful and yet overjoyed, and ran to announce the news to the disciples. And behold, Jesus met them on their way and greeted them. They approached, embraced his feet and did him homage. Then Jesus said to them, do not be afraid. Go tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.

While they were going, some of the guard went into the city and told the chief priests all that had happened. The chief priests assembled with the elders and took counsel. Then they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers, telling them, you are to say his disciples came by night and stole him while we were asleep. And if this gets to the ear of the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble. The soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story was circulated among the Jews to the present day.

It’s interesting to see the influences that worked against what Jesus was trying to establish. A community of believers that were filled with his presence. And they knew that he cared deeply for them and he would be with them in their journey. And the other powers that be, be it the institutional church or the institution of politics, whatever those things get involved with it, it’s always somehow a major obstacle who really has the ultimate authority, an institution called the church, the government. No, the real authority is in God. And he promises his presence.

He is the one that we surrender to foreign closing prayer. Father, your presence within us is the gift that you have given us through your death and resurrection. Help us always to rely upon that wisdom that you promise. Guide us so we can truly live the lives that we have been called to live. And we ask this in Jesus name. Amen.