Christ is Risen! He is Risen, Indeed! Alleluia!
These traditional words of greeting in the liturgy during the Easter season are words of triumph and great joy. They reflect the words of the angel to the women who came to Jesus’ tomb on Easter morning: “…Do not be afraid…. He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said…”(Mt 28:5-6). The women leave the tomb with joy at the angel’s message and even encounter Jesus himself as they run to tell the disciples. Similar words were spoken to the shepherds at Jesus’ birth: “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy,” which then the shepherds run to tell others.
As we leave the season of Lent and enter this season of Easter triumph and Easter joy, we are still mindful of sin and brokenness in our lives and in our world and our need of our Savior Jesus. And, though we are confronted with the effects of sin and injustice in our lives, we are reminded to not be afraid, because we are the beloved ones of God. We are joined to Christ through our baptism into his death and resurrection. Jesus’ victory is our victory over all that threatens to destroy us, “…so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead…, so we too might walk in newness of life” (Rom. 6:4). God’s great love for us through Christ has given us life and salvation and freed us from the power of sin so that we may live a new life and more fully love God and our neighbor.
May the triumph and joy of Jesus’ resurrection bring you peace and joy. May you join the faithful followers of Jesus throughout the ages in joyfully telling and living this good news of life and salvation. And, may you know the love, joy, and peace of God which surpasses all understanding.
+Bishop Wilma S. Kucharek
