Easter

"They did not yet understand the Scripture that he had to rise from the dead." Jn 20:9

There is no more important feast in the church calendar than Easter. Today we celebrate the breaking down, the shattering of every barrier between us and God. At the beginning of his journey, Jesus was baptized and heard God's confirmation of his mission. In the middle of Lent Jesus shows himself to his apostles as the new Elijah and the new Moses. Startled, Peter, James and John hear the same voice Jesus heard at his baptism, but this time it is addressed to them. "This is my beloved son. Listen to him," and they do. Though it is difficult and often confusing, the memory of God's voice sustains them and they are able to continue to follow Jesus.

Now at Easter, there is no voice, but there is another Epiphany. The tomb is empty. Even death cannot withstand  the power of God, and although the disciples do not fully understand what has happened, they do have some hope. Perhaps the Lord has risen. Perhaps he will return to them in a form they remember. Perhaps he will go before them to prepare a place for them. They cannot be sure of any of this, but because the tomb is empty, it is all possible, and that is enough.No one can fully understand or appreciate the mystery of the Resurrection. It is beyond our ability to articulate, and our only response is a hopeful silence as we wait for the Lord to tell us more.

The Easter mystery happens every day when we pay attention to life as it unfolds. There are no words to express the gratitude we feel for life, for friends, for the church that walks with us on pilgrimage, and while the institution often loses its way and struggles to hold onto forms and places that no longer move people towards God, we should have no fear. This is life, and it is alright. Although it is often painful and confusing, it is life in God and holds the promise of life forever. This is God's Easter promise, and we will now celebrate for fifty days the mystery of God's unfathomable love. Despite our faults and fears, God cannot stop loving us and wanting to be with us.

Today, listen to the earth, enjoy its rhythm, celebrate its gifts.

Who has helped you appreciate life in the middle of death?