Isn’t it true that many of us still struggle to take in the Good News of Easter, to really believe it? Sure, we sing the Alleluias, we rejoice in what the Resurrection promises, we hear of the hope which comes from Jesus’ rising from the dead. But we find it easier to identify with the Passion than with the Resurrection. We can more easily connect with the suffering of Jesus because we have experienced some suffering ourselves. The Resurrection? Doesn’t it remain at least a little elusive? Do we really appreciate the promise we have received? Like the early disciples, we do stand before the Good News of Easter still struggling to believe.
Nonetheless, a consolation and reassurance comes to us in this: we, like the first generation of believers, need time to recognize that the Risen Lord is indeed among us, saying to us what He said to them – “Peace be with you.” He offers us that special peace of mind and heart which is given to us by the Holy Spirit. As we receive this gift of His reassurance and love, He sends us out (ready or not!) as agents of His mercy and forgiveness, just as He sent them.
Let us pray. “O God, thank you for your amazing power and work in our lives. Thank you for your goodness and for your blessings. Thank you that you are able to bring hope through even the toughest of times, strengthening us for your purposes. Thank you for your mercy and grace. Thank you that you are always with us and will never leave us. Thank you for the incredible sacrifice of your Son which has given us freedom and life. In His Name we pray. Amen.”
