Rejoice in the new life God has given through the Risen Lord!
During Lent, we have been invited to recognize, face and act against the many temptations that prompt us human beings to be, and act in a less-than-human way. At the hart of every temptation is an urge to turn to, become preoccupied with the self. By so doing, the one acting inevitably neglects, acts against or harms the ‘other’: the environment, ones neighbor and, ultimately, God. This, at times irresistible self-centering urge prevents human beings from giving the ‘other’ its justice, which is the minimum measure of love.
In his suffering, death and resurrection, Christ gave us the solution that can enable everyone to overcome this weakness, or sinfulness. He showed us, that even in greatest difficulties, it is possible to overcome the temptation of turning to the ‘self’. He demonstrated it that even in the gravest trouble, one does not have to act like a drowning person, capable of harming even those wanting to help. He showed us that in the act of dying to one’s self-centeredness and selfishness lies the gateway to a new life that one arises to: a life lived for the ‘other’. This, however, is a tall order. Still, by trying to recall Christ’s example and God’s many other gifts and and signs of love for us, with gratitude, it is possible. Indeed, we are all invited to try to live the mystery of this new life we are invited to arise to, to whatever degree it is possible.
This is the reason that we can say that Jesus’ suffering, death and resurrection is the essence of the Christian message of salvation. Indeed, all are invited to live this new life, which is the only cure for the many troubles of our wounded world.
In this Easter season, let us contemplate and practice this mystery, of dying to oneself and rising to a new life, lived for the ‘other’.