More than just a day, the Church gives us a seven-week Easter season to celebrate. Yet sometimes our everyday lives feel so heavy that celebration is not a part of them. The pandemic lingers in our midst, there might be a critical illness in the family, the loss of a job, disappointments in relationships, and the burdens of everyday life. All of these can make it a challenge to feel particularly joyful – even in the Easter season of Resurrection and Hope. But the joy we are being invited into this season is beyond what we see in our everyday lives.
It is true that Jesus says “Come to me and bring me your burdens,” but we usually find it hard to believe. Maybe we don’t want to believe. If we really allow Jesus to come into our hearts the way He wants to, will He ask us to change in ways that we think are too hard? Wouldn’t it be safer to keep Him at arm’s length? How often do we think “life might be difficult, but at least our problems are familiar?” What would it cost us to let go and really change our lives?
Let us pray. “Loving God, we would like a clear path in front of us, but we know that you work in subtle ways. Do not allow our preconceptions to impede our journey. Grant us all we need in order to be faithful to your Risen Son. Allow us openness in receiving your grace. Share with us the strength of your Spirit. In Jesus’ Holy Name. Amen.”
