Easter Sunday Bible Study: Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118, Colossians 3:1-4 and John 20:1-9
“So if you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.” (Colossians 3:1)
Dear friends, as soon as Jesus rose from the dead, he immediately gave instructions to Mary Magdalene that the news of his resurrection should be spread to others. “Do not hold me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brethren and say to them, I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.” (John 20:17).
Indeed, our Easter celebration would not be complete if we do not proclaim to the world what we have seen and heard. This is exactly what Mary Magdalene did in our Gospel passage today. She became an apostle to the apostles. This is exactly what we see Peter doing in today’s first reading. In fact, Peter was still speaking when the Holy Spirit descended upon all who were listening. (Cf. Acts 10:44-46)
Do you consider the resurrection of Christ as Good News? Then, do not keep it to yourself, do not assume everyone already knows. Do not keep silent. We may ask, “What is the loudest way to proclaim that Christ has risen from the dead?” It is by letting our actions speak of the light that Christ shines in our world today. The choices we make, the way we relate with others, the kind of words we use, our dressing, our sincerity, our willingness to help and forgive and so on goes to show whether we have risen with Christ Jesus.
St. Paul admonishes in our second reading: “If you have been raised with Christ, set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” (Colossians 3:1-2). In his encyclical letter, Christus Vivit, Pope Francis addressing the youths and the Church, in general, said: “Dear friends, I ask you today, do you really believe that Jesus is alive? Then let your very life proclaim your answer.”
When we continue living in sin, we betray Jesus, we behave as though Jesus is still in the grave. As you go about your daily activities from today, have a Jesus-is-alive consciousness. Remind yourself constantly of His presence within and around you, put away the works of darkness, take your minds from earthly pursuits and seek the things that are above. Let your life proclaim that Jesus is Alive.
Let us pray: Lord Jesus, may my life become a loud proclamation of your resurrection. Amen.
Happy Easter. Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you.