When Mary Magdalene had said this, she turned round and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, ‘Woman, why are you weeping? For whom are you looking?’ (John 20:14-15)

In each of the Gospels, women are the first to see Jesus after the resurrection. However, many who see Jesus do not recognise him at first. Possibly, this is a combination of Jesus looking different after the resurrection and the disciples being overcome by their grief, thinking that Jesus was gone. At the start of the Gospel (1:38), Jesus asks ‘What are you looking for?’. The Gospel is brought to its finish with the who of Jesus as the focus.

Young people are searching for life’s answers. Sometimes their answer, like Mary Magdalene, may be staring them in the face without them seeing. I know I’ve been there! Part of the answer for young people lies inward – the goodness placed there by God and developing that so that they can live ‘life to the full’. Another part of the answer lies in embracing their companions on life’s journey, revelling in their shared humanity.

Have a great week!
Patrick