Dear Friends,
As we approach Easter this year, the joy of the Resurrection and the light of the Risen Christ among us is a counterpoint to some disturbing darkness in our world. Some of us face serious illness, while others grieve. Some of us have family members at risk here in the U.S., and others around the world. All of us, at some level, are concerned about divisive issues disturbing the peace, and the stirring of distant winds of war. This is what we read, and hear, and tell — but there more to see than the darkness hides.
It must have seemed even darker to Mary Magdalene and the other Mary, as they watched the light of the life of Jesus dim when He was crucified. It must have been a dark night of their souls after they witnessed Joseph of Arimathea closing Jesus’ tomb. What was it that sent the women back to the tomb in the darkness before the first dawn of the week? The light of hope that was far stronger than their understandable fear.
Resurrection hope, then and today, is unshakable faith that the drama playing out in front of us is not the whole story. Throughout his ministry, Jesus called people’s attention to God’s work behind the scenes. God’s faithfulness ensured that the combined powers and principalities of this world could not thwart God’s desire to bring all of us new life in Christ. God’s faithfulness follows us wherever we go. Our hope and confidence is to keep our eyes on the hidden Reign of God visible just behind whatever shadows the world casts on us.
So if you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth, for you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life is revealed, then you also will be revealed with him in glory. — Colossians 3:1-4
Easter blessings to you,
The Rev. Claire S. Burkat, Bishop