Breaking news

Something big has just happened – and the uncertainty surrounding it is overwhelming.

In a country that has nuclear weapons and the world’s most wanted terrorists within its borders, a former Prime Minister has just been assassinated at a political event. In these first few hours after Benazir Bhutto’s death, the uncertainties are truly overwhelming. Was she killed by shrapnel or bullets? Who was behind it? What will happen to Pakistan next? How will this affect the rest of the world?

(May God have mercy on her, her family, and the people of Pakistan.)

If we turn our attention to the Gospel scheduled for today (John 20:1a, 2-8), we find something very interesting:

Something big has just happened – and the uncertainty surrounding it is overwhelming.

In this case, the tomb of Christ has just been found empty and the uncertainties for his disciples are truly overwhelming. Mary Magdalene runs in a panic. Peter runs to check things out but does not seem to be able to figure out what has happened.

But when the beloved disciple walks into the tomb, he sees and believes.

Christ is risen.

John had been given the grace to understand quickly and he would be given the grace to proclaim eloquently.

As you and I continue through all of the uncertainties and dangers of this world, may we always ask our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for the grace to understand clearly, to proclaim effectively, and to live faithfully – no matter what news.