This daily Gospel meditation episode focuses on Mark chapter 16, which describes Jesus' appearances after his resurrection. Father João Carlos begins by noting that Mark's Gospel originally ended with the empty tomb narrative, with resurrection appearances added later. He recounts how Jesus first appeared to Mary Magdalene, but the disciples didn't believe her testimony. Jesus then appeared to two disciples traveling to the countryside, though they weren't immediately recognized due to his changed appearance. Finally, Jesus appeared to all eleven disciples during a meal, rebuking them for their lack of faith and hardness of heart. The reflection first considers how difficult it was for the disciples to believe in and assimilate the reality of resurrection. Father João Carlos suggests prejudice may have caused them to dismiss the women's testimony. He explains that resurrection represents not merely returning from death but entering a new glorified existence where Jesus' humanity now dwells in the divine sphere. The second major point examines why Jesus would entrust his mission to such an unbelieving, incomplete group of eleven disciples. Despite their faithlessness, Jesus commissions them to carry the Gospel to all nations. The good news they're to proclaim is that through Jesus' resurrection, the doors of God's kingdom open to believers who receive eternal life. The meditation then turns inward, asking listeners to examine any lingering disbelief in their own hearts. It emphasizes that Jesus is truly alive today, speaking through scripture, guiding through church pastors, feeding through the Eucharist, forgiving through confession, and present in worship assemblies. The episode concludes with a prayer acknowledging that Jesus' mission now belongs to all baptized Christians who must carry this truth in their hearts. A blessing is offered for the Easter season, followed by a brief mention of supporting a Catholic radio station.
