God Nudges Us Forward

Homily for Tuesday of Easter Week

In the first reading, Peter’s words pierce the hearts of his listeners. He proclaims boldly that “God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.” That truth—shocking, humbling, and liberating—moves thousands to conversion. Notice what happens: the moment they allow the truth to touch them, they ask, “What are we to do?” Openness to God always leads to transformation.

Psalm 33 reminds us why this transformation is possible. God’s word is “upright,” His works are “trustworthy,” and His eyes are upon those who hope in His love. Conversion isn’t about fear; it’s about discovering that God’s steadfast love is the safest place to stand.

Then we meet Mary Magdalene in the garden. She is overwhelmed with grief, unable to recognize the risen Jesus until He speaks her name. That moment changes everything. Her sorrow becomes mission. Her confusion becomes clarity. Her searching becomes finding.

These readings together reveal a simple truth: God meets us personally, calls us by name, and invites us into new life. But like the crowd at Pentecost and like Mary, we must be willing to let our hearts be moved. We must be ready to ask, “What must I do?” and ready to hear Jesus speak our name.

Today, perhaps God is nudging you in some small way—toward forgiveness, toward courage, toward deeper trust. Let your heart be pierced. Let yourself be called. And like Mary, go forth and announce with your life, “I have seen the Lord.”