The Resurrection of Jesus

After the Sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to see the tomb. And behold, there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, approached and rolled back the stone. The guards were shaken with fear of him. Then the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid! I know that you are seeking Jesus the crucified. He is not here, for He has been raised just as He said.” Mt 28:1-2, 4-6

When John Paul II was elected pope, he came to the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and announced to the world, “Be not afraid.” He spoke to the world the same message as the Resurrection angel to the two Marys. We are not to be afraid because Christ Jesus is risen from the dead. Christ Jesus is risen and living in our midst. Our Lord has conquered sin and death.

Look at the strong face of the risen Christ. He is strong when we are weak. He gives courage in our frailty. He grants us health in our sickness. He bestows peace to us in our fear. He said he would rise from the dead and He did. He said He would live in our midst and He does.