THE LORD HAS RISEN FROM THE DEAD: CATECHESIS OF THE RESURRECTION

We begin our Mass by ascending the Easter/paschal candle (presence of the Light of the world), the light of Christ who dispels the darkness of our hearts and our minds. We are called to be Light and to live in the Light, which is Christ. That is why we traditionally light up our candles from the paschal candle. The letters, numbers and art work we see on the paschal candle are significant. It symbolizes Christ yesterday and today, beginning and end, Alpha and Omega, to Him belongs all time and eternity, glory and power, for centuries without end.

Today we celebrate with joy the Sunday of the Lord's resurrection. In the first reading from Acts of the Apostles, Peter presents a catechesis that summarizes the life of Christ (v. 39-41), that He is a Jew, anointed for the mission, he was killed by the authorities, but God raised him up, and he is now present in the life of the community and the Church. He is present among us as a new Light that comes to enlighten all nations that are in darkness. That is why we receive the candles on the day of our baptism and the minister says: receive the Light of Christ.

Paul in the second reading, his letter to the Colossians presents the eschatology of the baptized, who live in hope of the resurrection. He said, “When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory” (Col 3:4). To appear with Christ in glory gives an indication of the resurrection. We see in the Gospel of John the first person who discovered that the Lord has risen. Mary Magdalene who went to visit Jesus' tomb and did not find him. Though frightened by what had happened, she was to announce the resurrection of Christ to his disciples.

Analyzing this reading full of signs about John the beloved and Peter, it is interesting to note that Peter went to the empty tomb and did not believe, despite the testimony of the community. Thomas too did not believe; he went as far as demanding proof of the resurrection. However, it was John the beloved disciple who went in after Peter, saw the empty tomb and believed (Jn 20:8). Mary Magdalene also when hearing the word of Jesus believed in him. That is why chapter 20 is considered as catechesis of the resurrection of Christ”.

Mary Magdalene is a symbolic figure of the community with no perspective of faith. She went to the empty tomb and realized Christ is no more there. With this knowledge she ran to meet the disciples. When she found them, she told them about “Theft of the body” not resurrection. She said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him” (v.2). The two disciples ran off, the beloved disciple arrives first but did not go in. Peter arrived, went in but did not believe and the beloved disciple went in and believed he has risen.

Interesting is the linen cloths and the napkin rolled up in a place. In Jewish culture, whoever finishes his meal tidy up his napkin. Jesus leaving the linen cloths lying on the floor will mean that he has not finished yet. Soon, he will encounter his disciples, ascend to heaven (when the Easter candle will be put off) and will send the Holy Spirit who will remain with the Church till the end of time. Today’s liturgy affirms the mystery of our faith that Christ has died, Christ is risen and Christ will come again. Hence, we are encouraged to be witnesses to the Risen Lord as the Easter celebration inflames our joy and hope. May the light of the Risen Lord dispel every darkness in our hearts through Christ our Lord. Amen!

Happy Easter!

Fr. Ken Dogbo, OSJ