EASTER C
This year, we celebrate Easter very differently than we have in the past, as we participate in the liturgy online and eat alone or only with those we share a house with. Some will be going to work on Easter, providing essential services as they fear contagion for themselves and their families.
Our economy, the way we interact with one another, even the way that we worship God, have all been disrupted – and perhaps changed forever – by a coronavirus.
The world right now is a scary place. Covid-19, the fear being infected or having a loved one infected, the fear of death, the loss of work, being separated from loved ones are among the many experiences that can leave us despondent, not knowing what to expect – in other words, afraid.
But, as we share with one another and with Christians around the world, a very different and virtual Easter celebration, let us also share in the sense of hope which is one of the most important messages of Easter. This message of hope is what makes our lives full and meaningful.
Those who met the risen Christ – the two Marys, the guards, the disciples – all experienced a profound change in their lives. Christ was alive and offered peace and hope to them. They were offered new beginnings.
Christ’s resurrection brought reconciliation, not vengeance. His resurrection overcame sin and death. His resurrection brought true redemption and an invitation to new life, where every human flaw could be corrected and we could be freed from whatever binds us or destroys true freedom. Through Christ’s resurrection we are welcomed into his kingdom.
We live in a wonderful, but deeply wounded and wounding world that is at times uncaring, unforgiving, cruel, and devoid of second chances.
Easter offers the assurance that the many difficulties and challenges that threaten to overwhelm us will be overcome.
Despite the desertion of his disciples, the cruelty of the soldiers, and despair of the women, Jesus offered them – just as he offers us – new life, forgiveness, and hope for the future.
We can find healing and hope in him who came that we might have life in all its fullness. The risen Christ, in his unconditional and profound love, makes possible for all of us to have second chances, new beginnings – new life.
Jesus says to his frightened disciples, do not be afraid. Jesus says to each of us, do not be afraid. Whatever it is that causes you to fear, Jesus, the risen Christ will be with you and will go ahead of you and continue to walk with you. He offers you joy and peace, forgiveness and hope. And most of all, he offers you himself. You need not fear, for Christ has overcome the world.