Do you believe in the Resurrection?  I do. That changes everything for me. Easter is about this outstanding miracle in our lives–Christ has conquered the grave and so we do not need to fear death. Death does not have the last word. Jesus does. What joy is ours to claim if we believe this!

I love the evening Easter mass at my parish. Tonight was especially moving–the music, the preaching, the renewal of our baptismal promises, and a surprise switch for me. Instead of being a lector, I distributed the Body of Christ. I have not had this privilege for over two years.  I resigned from that ministry for various reasons, but tonight, tonight was a pure gift to raise the host and proclaim: The Body of Christ. My line, and I do not think it was a coincidence, had several children and others who received a blessing from me: May you know the joy and love of the Risen Christ, I whispered over each bowed head. Towards the end, I could feel tears welling up. I had forgotten how much I loved this ministry. What better time to return to it than Easter?  The Body of Christ, risen for you, I wanted to shout.

A former pastor used to say Christ is Risen, Alleluia, Alleluia! and the congregation had to respond with a hearty Truly He is Risen, Alleluia, Alleluia! If we did not say it convincingly enough, he would not dismiss us until we got it right which was usually on the second try. The joy of the resurrection is ours to claim as gift if we desire it. Death does not have the final word–Christ does. That is where I rest my hope.

Peace,

Suzanne

Reflection Questions

How does a belief in the Resurrection change everything for you?

Have you slipped on the Joy and Love of the Risen Christ?

Prayer

May I know the Joy and Love of the Risen Christ whatever my circumstances in life. May I cling to the Hope of the Resurrection. May I know in the core of my being that this Body of Christ that I consume is Risen. Amen.