TOGETHER APART
Walking is part of my daily routine. When the local park became too crowded, I decided to wander about the neighborhood instead. Usually lost without a GPS, I felt a sense of accomplishment when I could meander along unfamiliar streets but still find my way back home.
I usually let my mind wander along with my feet, but I was compelled to look down one day. Something colorful caught my eye. It was a smooth stone, painted in blue and green with a small red heart. The stone lay at the base of a large tree, and the words “together apart” were written across it. I was intrigued and excited to look for another one. A red and pink stone lay at the next tree reading, “You are strong.” The following tree housed a yellow, speckled rock with a single word, “peace.”
What powerful, simple messages to stumble upon! I couldn’t help but feel God had a part in inspiring the stone messenger’s hand. Not only were these words comforting to read in today’s context of social distancing, but they also spoke to me in a way that perhaps Jesus meant to speak to Mary Magdalene and his disciples.
When Mary Magdalene visits the tomb in today’s Gospel reading, Jesus says, “Stop holding on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father.” Then he instructs Mary Magdalene to spread the news to his brothers that he will be joining his father. Jesus is preparing his followers for the physical distance that will separate them. Even so, they will be “together apart” through the faith that binds them.
Jesus gives Mary Magdalene the assurance that he will be going to his Father, who is “your Father,” to his God “and your God.” Each of Jesus’ followers can share the comfort of being in the same God’s embrace, remaining “strong” in their own desire to be close to God, and finding “peace” therein.
Let us remember how Jesus leads us home through our shared Father. What message would you paint on a rock for God to see? For others to uncover?
Nathalie Barona