EASTER SUNDAY A

WHY WE NEED THIS DAY

There is an idea that comes from St Francis de Sales that makes sense of the Resurrection of Jesus in daily life.

The gentleman saint said that on waking up each morning, we must thank the Lord for the gift of another day, for the gift of “our” Resurrection.

It makes real sense because a nighttime sleep is a reflection of death itself. In fact, many people sleep and never wake up the following day.

To wake up is actually a foretaste of the Resurrection!

This little act of thanking the Lord for his gift of life is so important today. It is a sign of hope. It is a sign of victory. It is a sign of God’s active presence in our lives.

There are people who are so burdened by problems that they are afraid to welcome another day.

There are sick people who suffer so much sickness that they dread another day of pain, medication, or of therapy.

There are some of us who find no meaning in life that tomorrow is no longer exciting, no longer full of promise.

What about those who are immobilized by the guilt of the past that joy has already escaped from their hearts?

Some people even wish for death… and even some attempt it… because life has become a heavy load!

God knows we go through all these crosses, darkness, tribulations each day. That is the reason why Jesus took the cross, embraced, died on it. He showed us how not to be afraid or defeated by dark forces in our world.

But “This man God raised on the third day and granted that he be visible, not to all the people, but to us, the witnesses chosen by God in advance…” says Peter in Acts 10 in the first reading today.

The Resurrection of Jesus is real… it is visible… because we are its witnesses!

We are not only witnesses of challenges, and problems and trials!

We are witnesses of Jesus’ power, healing, energy and hope!

We celebrated Holy Week not to remain at the foot of the Cross but to meet Jesus outside his empty tomb.

The Resurrection is not a finished event! It is still ongoing in the lives of struggling people – like you and me!

Do you have many problems? Jesus assures you, it will pass away… one by one.

Are you sick? Jesus is the healer of body and soul… unite yourself with him.

Do you feel guilt and remorse for the past? His blood already cleansed you from sin…

Are you seeking an end to your life? Hold it! There is a reason why you are alive today… don’t waste it.

Today Jesus is risen! Rejoice in him and partake of his new life.

Each day, we rise again from sleep. Be grateful and celebrate your gift of daily Resurrection from the Lord.

Happy Easter to all!

(Don’t forget to share with a friend…)