Cut to the Heart

Tuesday in the Octave of Easter

Acts 2:36-41; John 20:11-18

One of the flickers of light in this dark time for many is the possibility of change. Many families, for example, are (re)discovering the joys of a simple meal together and genuine conversations as opposed to a time of simultaneous feeding and viewing personal electronic devices.  

Crises not only demand short-term responses, they also create possibilities for long-term and even life-transforming change. Many in the crowd that Peter preached to at Pentecost were convicted by his preaching about the death and resurrection of Jesus. In Luke’s words, they were “cut to the heart.”  

Thousands were immediately baptized, and for at least some it was a life-altering event.  Mary Magdalene, having seen her beloved teacher die, is so shocked by his empty tomb that at first she cannot recognize him. Yet she becomes the first witness and messenger of his resurrection.  

While I have fortunately escaped any serious illness, COVID-19 has forced me to slow down and live at a more reasonable pace. I’ve taken more time to reflect and pray, strengthen relationships, and mop kitchen and dining room floors that sorely needed it.  

Almost all of us have received a COVID cut to the heart. What is/are yours? –jc