today's other readings are Acts 2: 36-41 and Psalm 33
During the Easter Octave our gospel stories are stories of the resurrection and what happens in the days following. The Easter Octave will conclude this coming Sunday.
Today we hear of the encounter between Jesus and Mary by the empty tomb. There is a point that needs to be noted in this story and in many of the post-resurrection stories - it is still the same Jesus, but somehow He has changed. For Mary doesn't recognize Him right away. It is only when He calls her by name does the "light bulb" go on for Mary, and in her joy she clings to Him.
What an emotional moment for Mary - after witnessing the horror of His Crucifixion, and then her dismay at seeing the empty tomb, now her spirits soar.
Jesus called her by name. I trust you look forward to hearing Him call you by name when that time comes in the next life.