Resurrection 2018

‘I am the resurrection and the life.
Whoever believes in me will never die’ (Jn.11:25).

Jesus could proclaim himself as “the resurrection and life” because the Father called him ‘the beloved Son’.  The Gospel story reveals the trust Jesus had in his Father, who will glorify his Son.

In order to attain the life promised us as believers, we are to imitate him through humility and with the truth of our lives. Take up your cross to follow me (Ref. Mt.10:38). Following Jesus is not always easy because often it involves suffering, a suffering that saves. As Edmond Mbiaka says: The best is yet to come, but you must first put in your very best.

God the Father gave us the very best in Jesus. We also know that the Father stood by his Son during all the difficult moments of his life. This knowledge gives us the courage to believe that God will sustain us through our suffering. He stays with us, shares our pain and sorrow, and gives consolation through the sacraments, through family members, through members of our religious congregation and through a variety of situations and events.  

Faith in the Risen Jesus gives hope to every human being; it is the foundational truth of what we profess to believe: there is life after life. If Jesus had not accepted suffering and death on the cross, there would not have been resurrection. Jesus embraced and remained faithful to the way desired by his Father.

Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did (1Jn.2:6). During these days of Lent, John invites us to reflection concerning our life style, our convictions. We might also ask ourselves “what makes me get up each morning, or urges me to life and to service?  

How do we imitate Jesus in our day-to-day lives? It may be easy for some and terribly difficult for others but the words of Jesus urge us forward: I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you (Jn. 13:15).

Numerous unexpected events shape our lives –both positively and negatively -illness or disability, a broken relationship, unpleasant news from someone dear to us, an unkind remark or damage to our reputation. 

If we recognize and accept these unexpected episodes with faith and courage, they become sacramental moments. Each of us carries a personal cross. 

The readings of the fourth Sunday of Lent invite us to come to the light of Christ. Let us go forward with the firm hope and conviction that God is with us, as He was with his own son, Jesus the Christ. God knows that all we do is for him and his glory!

May the joy of the Risen Christ be with us.