Daily Meditation for May 12, 2025

After Jesus’ crucifixion the disciples fled to the upper room. They were very afraid because their world was turned upside down. Even after Mary Magdalene, the first to see the risen Christ, ran to them to proclaim, “I have seen the Lord!” they were unsure what that meant. Had Jesus come back? How could that be? The disciples remained with each other for comfort and courage until gradually, through each new appearance, they began to understand that Jesus had been transformed into the risen Christ. They became able to see how the Christ was present amongst them. In the past few months, I have had many moments when I have huddled in my upper room, the third-floor condo where I live, feeling worried and afraid about what’s going on in my community and in the world. I turn to others and listen for news of how they have “seen the Lord” in their lives and share what I have seen: communities gathering food for those who are hungry, expressing respect for all their neighbors, and extending kindness to all the children as they walk through the school doors each morning. These “appearances” give me comfort and strengthen my resolve to share this good news throughout my day. Where have you seen the Lord around you? Who do you share those appearances with? Take comfort. Fear not. Jesus is risen. (Matt 28:5–6).

By Liz and Dennis Keenan, OblSB