On Easter, light overwhelms darkness and life overcomes death
Reflections on the readings for the the Mass of Easter Day (April 1, 2018): ACTS 10:34,37-43, PS 118:1-2,16-17,22-23, COL 3:1-4, JN 20:1-9
MISSIO offers “Mission In Scripture” to nurture a missionary heart, providing reflections on the missionary themes in the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days.
In the first reading for Easter morning we hear Peter’s words the first time he shared the Good News with Gentiles. “God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power. He went about doing good…for God was with Him.… They put Him to death by hanging Him on a tree. This Man God raised on the third day and granted that He be visible” (Acts 10:38-40).
Peter wanted his listeners to understand the importance of Christ’s death and resurrection. He wanted them to be clear that Jesus was far more than a good and holy man, who helped all He met and preached God’s mercy. He was – and is – the Son of God.
And it is not enough for Christians today to focus on the compassion and wisdom of Christ. We must embrace Him as our Savior. We must recognize Him as one with the Father and the Holy Spirit. The glory of Easter lies in the fulfillment of God’s promise to care for all His children. He paid the price of His own Son in order to redeem us. The consequences of sin and death – that have tormented humankind since our first parents let evil and selfishness come between them and God – are now broken. Through the loving sacrifice of Christ, our wounds are healed and we have become the adopted children of the Almighty. Happy Easter!
Suggested missionary action: Let us ask God to share the joy of this day with us and to help us share it with others. And let us ask Him to uncover the glory of Easter morning for us each day.
