Easter Sunday: Joyful, Joyful

Maurice Denis. Holy Women Near the Tomb/Saintes Femmes au tombeau. 1894

RAISED FROM THE DEAD

This is the great truth which fills our faith with meaning. Jesus, who died on the cross, has risen. He has triumphed over death; he has overcome sorrow, anguish and the power of darkness ... In him we find everything. Outside of him our life is empty (J. Escriva, Christ is passing by).

In Conversation With God Vol 2: Lent and Eastertide

HE IS RISEN! ALLELUIA!
After the somber tone and reflection of Holy Thursday and Good Friday there is the joy of Easter. I remember that during the pandemic I felt more like the first Christians than ever since we couldn't go to Mass and have big celebrations. No matter our circumstances on Easter morning — nothing changes the glorious face — Jesus is risen! And the world hasn't been the same ever since.

"In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world." — John 16:33

The resurrection is proof of that statement.

May you all have the delight and joy felt by the apostles when they saw the tomb was empty.

The Angel at the Tomb by Mikhail Vrubel, 1911.
via J.R.'s Art Place

This is my 24th birthday as a Catholic and well I remember how wonderful it was sitting with my sweet and wise sponsor, the smell of the chrism (I wanted to never wash it off), and that glorious Mass where it all happened.

I welcome all my new Catholic brothers and sisters who had that experience this Easter. Welcome!