In the Opening Prayer at Mass on Easter Sunday we pray: “Bestow upon those baptized in (Jesus’) death the power flowing from his resurrection,
that we may proclaim near and far the pardon and peace you give us.”
Today we celebrate our Easter joy! We are often reminded that we are an “Easter People.” We live joyful lives, knowing that, in the Resurrection, Jesus has freed us from our sins and the fear of death. This is powerfully expressed in the words from the Easter song, “Resurrection Power” by Chris Tomlin:
Jesus, You have given us freedom. No longer bound by sin and darkness, living in the Light of your goodness.
The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead and which was given to us in baptism gives us the power to bring that freedom, pardon, and peace to others. We are given the power to be a witness to Resurrection Power!
Registered parishioners have been mailed small cards with our Easter Connecting Point printed on it. Additional cards will be available in church once Masses resume. We ask you to place this card in a conspicuous place where you will see it every day. I put mine on my bathroom mirror.
My plan is to each morning think of at least one person I have the power to bring pardon and peace to that day. It may be simply a word of pardon, even in a small matter. It may be a visit to a person who is ill or grieving the death of a loved one. It may be taking time to listen to a stressed-out colleague or neighbor. It may be a card, phone call, or text to someone in need of encouragement. It may be many things!.
I believe that the Resurrection of Jesus has given me pardon and peace, the freedom “to live in the light of God’s goodness.” I am humbled and overwhelmed to know that I have been given the power to bring that freedom to others. We all have!
-Fr. Ron
