By Townsville Bishop Tim Harris
SAINT John Paul II in 1989 said: “Christ’s resurrection is the greatest event in the history of salvation and indeed, we can say in the history of humanity, since it gives definitive meaning to the world”.
Indeed it does.
This year the celebration of Christ’s resurrection is celebrated in the midst of world conflicts with many deaths of innocent human lives.
These events have shaken us to the core.
Humanity has suffered a severe blow. These experiences are real and millions of people became victims in the process.
Annihilation is surely not what we freely choose ..? In these circumstances our hopes and efforts for peace would be overwhelmed.
Christian hope in every respect sheds light in a darkened world. Christian hope tells us that there is a better way to live and indeed to die.
Christian hope lifts us up to better things, to a better life, to a renewed commitment to each other, for God does not make rubbish. God creates beautifully and we are the pinnacle of God’s creation.
Humanity, therefore, needs to live and act accordingly.
The Christian is pro life as the resurrection demonstrates.
We are called to be pro life in the here and now as in preparation for the life to come.
This is where our faith ‘kicks’ in. Without faith, realities that should inspire hope and expectation only cause confusion.
Surely Jesus’ empty tomb is the sign of the most complete victory, the most extreme love and the most powerful presence.
Mary Magdalene, Peter and John all see the empty tomb. But in their limited faith they need time to grow and completely accept the great gift that is offered to them.
As we reflect on the message of Easter, let us never lose hope but rather, like Mary Magdalene, Peter and John, join them in running towards the Lord with a real sense of urgency.
We all need, especially today, an experience of Christ and His resurrection.
Our relationship with Christ is one we need to attend to for it will empower us to work for peace in our world and in ourselves. It will present us with a new way to live and to die.
My prayer at Easter is that I may also run to the Lord in order to meet my responsibilities and duties today as a follower of Christ.
There is no time to waste in terms of living and preaching the faith I profess.
May our individual and collective prayer be now and always: “Let all the events of my life point me to the truth that you Lord Jesus are alive.”
Alleluia, Alleluia!
