May those who sow in tears reap with shouts of joy! – Psalm 126:5
Alleluia! The season of Easter joy has arrived! Jesus promised His disciples that although He would suffer and die and they would have to hide while mourning Him, their suffering would be replaced with joy. Jesus told His disciples: “Truly, truly, I say to you, you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice; you will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy” (John 16:20).
The smothering tomb has been opened. Jesus has risen and freed us from the snares of death. The cross, meant to bring death, instead has become the Tree of Life. The cross with all its terror and shame has become the fountain of living water and Christ’s precious blood (see John 19:34). Truly, life has triumphed over death.
The joy of Easter has dispelled the sorrows of sin and death. The darkness sought to destroy His light, but His “light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5). Cardinal Jean Danielou wrote, “…Christ is the sun of the new creation. He rose at the time of the Incarnation. His name is the Orient, the Dawn of the East, He attacked the power of darkness and on the day of His Resurrection, He completely scattered the darkness of death and of sin.”
It is Easter Sunday, “the anniversary of salvation” (St. Gregory Nazianzen). The sorrows, pain, and fear of Christ’s passion and death have purchased our salvation. He came as an infant in Mary’s womb to be called Jesus, Jeshua, “to save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). By His holy cross, His work has been accomplished (John 19:30). He has set us free. Truly, “…the Father has sent his Son as the Savior of the world” (1 John 4:14).
Alleluia! Abba, Father, there is so much to take in on this Easter Day. Your loving mercy; the generous gift of Your Son, our Savior; Your glorious power and providence. May I live with a thankful, happy heart during this season of joy. May I bring Your love and joy to others.