SOLEMNITY OF EASTER A
GOOD NEWS MARATHON
Jn 20: 1-9
MESSAGE
The Resurrection gospel is action-packed. Notice the movement of the disciples who discover for the first time that the tomb was empty. Mary Magdalene “ran” to Simon Peter and the other disciple. Peter and this disciple then “both ran” towards the tomb. The other disciple “ran faster” than Peter and reached the tomb first. Today, there seems to be a marathon in the gospel, a running match that describes the excitement in the hearts of all. They sense something new has begun although their minds did not fully understand. While their feet ran, their heartbeats raced even faster.
What is it that propelled the disciples to action? It was hope that was rekindled within them. It was faith that now gradually assures them. It was their love for Jesus who they feel in their hearts is risen, neither stolen nor lost or hidden by enemies. He is alive and they run because they have recovered the energy they once had but was lost when the Lord Jesus was crucified and buried.
The Resurrection of the Lord is the greatest miracle ever witnessed in history. One man offers his perfect adoration and obedience to the Father. And in response to this perfect oblation, the Father acts in favor of his Son, and raises him from the dead. The Resurrection is the reward of love for love. Anyone who witnesses, anyone who believes this will generate the power to be full of joy, excitement, and courage. In the Risen Christ, disciples regain the agility to run and spread the marvelous news, running toward the tomb and later running toward the waiting world.
People today run to take cover from bombs and missiles. They run to collect supplies to store in their pantries. They run out of fear, worry, and anxiety. Many of us even try to run from our own selves, the problems we have created. But if we believe in the message of Easter, in the fact that Jesus is here with us, we will cease running out of fear but we will run with confidence and trust.
REFLECT
The Lord is Risen! Our God is a living God who gives us strength. Let us not give up, not give in to pessimism and fear. Let us run with hearts full of faith, hope, and love. Hallelujah!
HAPPY EASTER, EVERYONE! SMILE AND MAKE ANOTHER PERSON SMILE TODAY!
