Into the World – Reflection on Mark 16:9-15
“Go into all the world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature.” The thought of leaving everything behind seems unwise because where will resources such as food come from? However, I believe that for most of us, Jesus likely means integrating mind, body, and spirit by living the Gospel wherever we might be. Recall the precise fractional second with Christ when you knew you could do so without fear. Your heart and belief in the risen Christ were dramatically strengthened instantly. Without that moment, would you be able to trace your humble attempts to do and be as Christ asks? Now, you are transforming from being “of the world” to instead “into the world.” Bless your continued desire to proclaim the good news in your unique ways.
Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene by James Tissot. (full-resolution image of painting).
More details are available on the Brooklyn Museum website.
Additional Eastertide Reflections
Mark 16:9-15 – Scripture*
Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene
9 Now after he rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons. 10 She went out and told those who had been with him, while they were mourning and weeping. 11 But when they heard that he was alive and had been seen by her, they would not believe it.
Jesus Appears to Two Disciples
12 After this he appeared in another form to two of them, as they were walking into the country. 13 And they went back and told the rest, but they did not believe them.
Jesus Commissions the Disciples
14 Later he appeared to the eleven themselves as they were sitting at the table; and he upbraided them for their lack of faith and stubbornness, because they had not believed those who saw him after he had risen. 15 And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the good news to the whole creation.
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel and reading this Lectio Divina on Mark 16:9-15 Reflection – Into the World.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these Lectio reflections on the Gospel readings? Since Lectio is not the only contemplative prayer style, others might appreciate these types of expressions in this ministry. Do you see God’s grandeur everywhere and unconditionally enjoy sharing the love of Christ that you have inside? Are you willing to be anonymous in what you would share? If so, email me.
Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities experience your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite worldly distractions.
Attributions
*This site has permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible Mark 16 passage.
The Immersive Prayer website follows the guidelines for image web use at the Brooklyn Museum and Jewish Museum websites.
Primary Lectio Divina word or phrase: Into the World
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