Then the other disciple also went in,
the one who had arrived at the tomb first,
and he saw and believed.
For they did not yet understand the Scripture
that he had to rise from the dead.
During this extraordinary moment when virtually all the world finds itself quarantined in their homes as a result of the pandemic that has gripped us with fear, I find myself inspired and encouraged by a gift given to me some 46 years ago on the occasion of my priestly ordination. The gift was a beautiful serigraph by the famous 20th century artist and religious sister, Sr. Corita Kent. It is done in her quintessential typical style combining a quote with vivid colors. The quote is from the French philosopher and Christian existentialist, Gabriel Marcel. In bold calligraphy it proclaims: We can only speak of Hope!
My friends, on this Easter day, 2020, that quote captures the essence and meaning of this Easter for people of faith down through the centuries. Christ has broken the power of darkness, sin and hopelessness, conquering death in his Resurrection victory.
Today we celebrate the pivotal feast of the Christian faith on which hinges the entirety of the good news of Christ. As St. Paul reminds us, “If Christ had not risen from the dead, your faith is in vain.”
Despite whatever may challenge the human spirit in whatever chapter of human history we may find ourselves in, the light from that empty tomb resonates with its incessant proclamation of hope for all who are willing to surrender in loving belief.
And so, even in the midst of a world scarred by the fear of this moment, the risen Jesus stands before us and with us with his outstretched hands, scarred themselves with the nail prints of the cross, beckoning us to sing our Alleluias.
On this feast of feasts, let us make the ancient hymn of this day our own in faith and unfailing hope in the risen one who is always in our midst:
Yes, Christ my hope is arisen;
to Galilee he goes before you.
Christ indeed from death is risen, our new life obtaining.
Have mercy, victor King, ever reigning!
Amen. Alleluia.