FATHER JIM'S JOTS! - Easter Sunday - March 31, 2024 - "He is Risen"

 St. Elizabeth Catholic Church

"HE IS RISEN!"

March 31, 2024

EASTER SUNDAY

FATHER JIM'S JOTS

Greetings!!

Christ is risen!

On this day, we proclaim that he, the Lord of our life, is "the resurrection and the life" of the world.

Let us make haste to surmount our conflicts and divisions, and to open our hearts to those in greatest need.  Let us rejoice at the concrete signs of hope that reach us from so many countries, beginning with those that offer assistance and welcome to all fleeing war and poverty.

At the same time, along this journey we also encounter many stumbling blocks, which make it more difficult and demanding to hasten towards the Risen Lord.  To him, then, let us make our prayer: Lord, help us to run to meet you!  Help us to open our hearts!

Comfort refugees, deportees, political prisoners and migrants, especially those who are most vulnerable, as well as the victims of hunger, poverty and the dire effects of the drug trade, human trafficking and all other forms of slavery.  Lord, inspire the leaders of nations to ensure full respect for human rights; that the common good of the citizenry may be pursued always and solely; and that the security and the conditions needed for dialogue and peaceful coexistence may be guaranteed.

May we rediscover the enjoyment, quicken the heartbeat of hope and experience a foretaste of the beauty of heaven!  Today, let us summon the energy to advance in goodness towards Goodness itself, which never disappoints.  We believe in you, Lord Jesus.  We believe that, with you, hope is reborn and the journey continues.  May you, the Lord of life, encourage us on our journey and repeat to us, as you did with the apostles on the evening of Easter:  "Peace be with you!"

Easter Blessings to you and yours,

Fr. Jim, Pastor

* Easter reflection adapted from Pope Francis' Easter 2023 Urbi et Orbi Message

~ Image Source