Easter Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord

In the first reading, Peter is speaking to a group that knew Jesus and John the Baptist; however, they need more to become believers. Peter bears witness to all that he and his companions experienced with Jesus, his virtuous deeds, the miracles performed, and how he became visible to select witnesses chosen by God, who ate and drank with Jesus after his death and resurrection. Peter brought people of little faith to believers in the Risen Jesus. Even though we cannot encounter the Risen Jesus as Peter did, we meet him when we partake of his body and blood.

The second reading from Saint Paul affirms that through our baptism, we die with Christ so that we, too, will appear with him in glory.

In the gospel, Mary of Magdala, a devout follower of Jesus and known sinner, goes in the darkness of early morning to anoint the body of Jesus, to find the stone removed from the tomb. Imagine her inner struggle, the fear that Jesus’ body was stolen versus what Jesus taught her. Fear keeps her from entering, so she runs to Simon Peter and John, two of Jesus’ closest disciples, to report that Jesus has been taken. As Christians, we know that the crucifixion is a historical event. We believe that the Resurrection is a faith event, and it is. Still, as true believers in the Risen Jesus, this gospel offers an opportunity to strengthen our faith and share with non-believers what John and Peter saw and proclaimed.

Today is a day of boundless joy and astonishment. Take time to go to the tomb with Mary of Magdala, Simon Peter, and John, see the stone rolled away, the cloths carefully placed, and proclaim: ‘Jesus Christ is risen. ‘ Alleluia, Alleluia!

Let us pray:

Yes, Christ, my hope, is arisen to Galilee; he goes before you. Christ indeed from death is risen, our new life obtaining. Have mercy, victor King, ever reigning! Amen, Alleluia!