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In the last few weeks, the internet has been flooded with articles and photos about Easter. Much of this content captures the essence of hope and resurrection. While some of it may not resonate with everyone, I often find myself contrasting these modern perspectives with the timeless scene of the ten disciples gathered in a locked room, filled with fear and confusion. Judas had passed, and Thomas was absent, leaving them fearful of both the Roman and Jewish authorities and plagued by shame for abandoning our Master in His time of need.
A Personal Encounter with Faith
As they huddled together, disturbed by reports from Mary Magdalene that she had seen Jesus and confronted with Peter and John’s discovery of the empty tomb, they hoped, though cautious about daring to hope. Suddenly, Jesus was among them, greeting them with “Shalom.” He showed them His hands and the wound in His side, authenticating His presence. Again, He said, “Peace be with you,” and in that moment, they became apostles—those sent out with a commission.
Forgiveness and a New Mission
Jesus breathed the Holy Spirit upon them, granting a new authority concerning the forgiveness of sins. On that first Easter night, He forgave the disciples for their betrayal, emphasizing the power of reconciliation. Every church, including ours, must embrace this gift. It’s dangerously easy to allow division and overlook sin. The world is skeptical of a church proclaiming reconciliation if it itself is divided and unrepentant.
A Call to Suffer and Stand Firm
The church today is called to reflect the marks of suffering whenever Christians face persecution for their beliefs or where other religions oppose Christian evangelism. We are often reluctant to take a stand on moral issues—materialism, conflicts—because standing up is not comfortable. Yet, just as Christ suffered for truth, so must we. I ponder if the church today, especially in the Western world, has the same sense of mission as the early disciples?
Being Sent with Obedience
Christ’s commissioning to His disciples, to teach, heal, baptize, and disciple nations, was a monumental task for those who hadn’t ventured far from their villages, let alone to Jerusalem. But they were men under obedience, supported by divine grace. From constant persecution to becoming the Empire’s religion within three centuries, they reflected on their role today. Self-consciousness and uncertainty about Christ’s uniqueness can weaken our vocation.
A Call to Every Christian
Being a Christian means being part of His mission. We cannot claim to be in Christ and ignore our part in His global mission. This involves caring for the sick and serving the community. Yet, while society may attribute issues to bad environments or accidents, I see the significance in addressing sin and forgiveness not just as moral failings but as pathways to reconciliation with God.
Experiencing Joy through Faith
True joy comes when the church or individual Christians reach out in faith to the risen Christ, accept His forgiveness, and commit to obey His call. The result is an infectious new joy.
The Church and Its Unique Role
There’s often a tension between the role of the church and government agencies. Yet, the first Easter illuminated the difference—faith became action. The apostles, once discouraged, had returned to deliver the Easter message: the good news of the risen Christ provided answers in our darkest times.
Conclusion
The Easter message, initially preached by Peter in Jerusalem and St. Paul across Asia Minor, Greece, and Rome, remains the good news of the risen Christ. It makes sense of our lives amid inquiries, disappointments, and confusion. As I share these reflections, I am reminded that through reconciliation, we find not just purpose but profound happiness.