Reflection for April 6 Monday in the Octave of Easter: Matthew 28:8-15

Gospel: Matthew 28:8-15

Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went away quickly from the tomb, fearful yet overjoyed, and ran to announce the news to his disciples. And behold, Jesus met them on their way and greeted them. They approached, embraced his feet, and did him homage. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.” 

While they were going, some of the guard went into the city and told the chief priests all that had happened. The chief priests assembled with the elders and took counsel; then they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers, telling them, “You are to say, ‘His disciples came by night and stole him while we were asleep. 

And if this gets to the ears of the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble. The soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story has circulated among the Jews to the present day.

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Reflection:

Up to what point are we willing to be influenced and shaped by the many evils of money? As we examine our hearts, we must ask ourselves: are we willing to compromise the truth for financial gain? Are we willing to trade what is eternal for what is temporary?

Money, in itself, is not evil—but when we allow it to take control of our hearts, it slowly begins to lead us away from God. When we place it above truth, integrity, and faithfulness, it becomes a quiet but powerful force that can eventually destroy us from within.

Let us reflect on the life of Judas Iscariot. He walked with Jesus, witnessed His miracles, and heard His words of life—yet he allowed greed to take root in his heart. For thirty pieces of silver, he chose to betray the very Lord he once followed. In the end, he was overwhelmed by guilt and despair, unable to bear the weight of what he had done.

This is not just his story—it can also become ours if we are not vigilant. Even today, many of us are tempted in subtle ways. We may not betray Jesus openly, but we may compromise our values, remain silent when we should speak the truth, or justify dishonest gain for the sake of comfort or security. At first, it may seem small, even harmless—but over time, it shapes our hearts and distances us from God.

In the Gospel, we also encounter the soldiers who witnessed the truth of Jesus’ resurrection. They had the opportunity to proclaim what they had seen, yet they allowed themselves to be silenced and persuaded by money. Instead of becoming witnesses of truth, they chose convenience and self-preservation. How often do we find ourselves in the same situation—knowing what is right, yet choosing what is easy?

As followers of Christ, we are called to be people of truth, courage, and integrity. When we are faced with temptations—especially those that appeal to our desires for security, comfort, or gain—may we remember that no amount of money can ever replace a clear conscience and a faithful heart before God.

Let us pray for the grace to stand firm, to choose what is right even when it is difficult, and to trust that God will provide for all our needs when we remain faithful to Him.

Now the question we must bring into prayer is this: When we are faced with the quiet temptation of dishonest gain, will we choose fleeting rewards—or will we choose to remain faithful to Christ, no matter the cost? —Marino J. Dasmarinas