We are an Easter people and Alleluia is our song.” The greatest gift of Easter Sunday is our hearing and experiencing God’s amazing love for us. Jesus’ rising from the dead is our hope of resurrection. This amazing love of God gives us everything and never abandons us. Since that first Easter morning, we continue to celebrate the power of God to open the chains of death so that we might see life in its fullness.

John 20:1-9

Reflection The resurrection! No one saw it happen: it is too big for that. But in the resurrection of Jesus all of creation is risen, and we human beings walk ‘in newness of life’ as St Paul says. The resurrection is, in the words of Pope Benedict, a cosmic event of love, shattering death.

Peter and the other disciple, who had stood faithfully beneath the cross, run to the tomb. The other disciple saw and believed. Peter, whose last recorded action was to deny Jesus, still does not believe. What blocks me from fuller faith?

Mary was first to announce the resurrection, the first to receive the encouragement and hope that the risen Jesus offers. Others are remembered for promoting the message, for proclaiming the new truth. I take some time with Mary asking her to guide me as I wait; I pray that I may notice and take heart as I see signs of resurrection in my life.

Even at this marvellous moment, those who had been closest to Jesus did not understand the scriptures. I ask God to help me this Easter; that I may recognise where the scriptures are coming to life as I am guided by the spirit of God.

CONCLUDING PRAYER

O Risen Lord, the Way, the Truth, and the Life,Make us faithful followers of the spirit of Your Resurrection. Grant that we may be inwardly renewed, dying to ourselves in order that You may live in us. May our lives serve as signs of the transforming power of Your love. Use us as Your instruments for the renewal of society, bringing Your life and love to all, and leading them to Your Church. This we ask of You, Lord Jesus, living and reigning with the Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever. Amen