Father Michael's Column
Pastor’s Column for April 20th, 2025
Easter SUNDAY
“What good would life have been to us, if Christ had not come as our Redeemer?”
These words, which are part of the “Easter Proclamation” that is sung during the Easter Vigil, challenge us to think about the meaning of our lives. We can become so proud, perhaps even too proud of “our” accomplishments—and yet at other times we find ourselves over-whelmed by our failures and disappointments.
And what’s happening in the world around us, whether international politics or the bizarre view of reality that is trying to be presented as “normal” within our American society, challenges us to reevaluate what is significant in our lives—and what is not—and whether our priorities and actions are in line with what we say we believe.
All the tragedies or joys we experience are put into perspective by the truth that Christ has risen from the dead. I’ve recently heard it said that “if Christ has risen from the dead, nothing else matters; If Christ has NOT risen from the dead...nothing matters.
If Christ had not risen, our lives would be shallow, fleeting—and, ultimately, of little meaning. What a far cry from the lives of Christians who throughout the ages, beginning with the earliest eyewitnesses, have encountered the Risen Lord! These people were so transformed by their experience that they were little troubled by persecution or any other evil around them. In fact, they were willing to lay down their lives for their belief, knowing that this life is fleeting, but that there was joy and life eternal awaiting them.
Think of that, when you’re tempted to get upset with family members who just might be more frustrated than even you are. Think of that when sickness touches you or a loved one. Think of that when “the news” or social media present lies as truth. Think of that when financial concerns, the threat of wars—or fears for the future of our country and our children intrude upon your peace.
But, as it is, the Lord is risen, and the resurrected Lord Jesus has invited us to share eternal life. Like he has done with Christians throughout the ages, he invites us to encounter him and then become disciples. Our response to that invitation is critical. If we accept his invitation—and allow that acceptance to pervade every aspect of our lives—we find that what we do and who we are has meaning, profound meaning!.
Our struggles, disappointments, and successes are all seen from a new, joyful perspective. We have become an Easter People, a joyful band of missionary disciples destined for eternal life!
The Lord is risen! Happy Easter!
On this feast of the Resurrection, I offer this prayer for you and your loved ones:
May the light of the Risen Lord dispel all darkness from every part of your life. May He touch your mind and heart with the joy of His presence, and may His love embrace you and all your family. Amen!
In Jesus,
Fr. Michael