In the scriptures, we see Jesus as a figure with a significant message for mankind regarding our bond with the Divine. His societal ideology is demanding, encompassing notions of equality, duty, profound respect for others, reverence for life, humility towards nature and creation, the importance of an individual, the role of being an active listener, restoration, peace, and forgiveness.
Reflecting on the spiritual teachings of Jesus can leave one in awe. His representation and teachings of a God that is deeply engaged with mankind and provides immense hope, are radical. Following his groundbreaking life and transformational teachings was another revolutionising event, the Resurrection, meant for all of humanity, not just for one individual. Take a moment to contemplate that.
The promise of everlasting life that Jesus extends is for everyone. Without the Resurrection, Jesus might just have been recognized as someone spreading a critical liberating and life-enhancing message. However, His Resurrection, His revival from death, with death no more a possibility for Him, has propelled His message to an unprecedented level.
The transformation caused by the Resurrection is phenomenal, something that Pope Benedict XVI described as a cosmic occurrence. The change is so extensive that multiple individuals refuse to believe its validity. For those who have faith, the message of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus is constantly seen as “good news” and brimming with optimism.
‘When everything appears lifeless, indications of the Resurrection unexpectedly appear. It’s an indomitable power.’ — Pope Francis
The path of adherence to Jesus is not an easy one – it poses significant challenges. It’s imperative to distinguish between the challenges posed by the gospel – a gospel of love, compassion, and hope, and the version some people have false construed: a gospel of exclusion and judgement. The true challenge of the gospel is not to exclude, but to stay faithful to it, discovering ways of being equal, empathetic and forgiving.
Our history is unfortunately marred by instances of discrimination and severe judgement, overpowering mercy, understanding, and fundamental human respect. Such judgemental attitudes can ensnare individuals in negative, narrow-minded opinions of human conducts, potentially leading to profound human distress. Such experiences are evident in the context of mother-and-baby homes and the disgraceful behaviors towards the LGBT community.
Likewise, I consider those who, for a range of reasons, decide to call our country home. The reception they receive, particularly at a community level, is sincere and warm-hearted. However, this has been tarnished by a select few whose narratives are narrow, aggressive, and devoid of human respect, much less hospitality.
Our duty as human beings isn’t to place additional burdens on others. Instead, inspired by Jesus Christ, we should strive to alleviate burdens, assist others in overcoming difficulties, celebrate life and cherish every individual. During our lives, we are encouraged and challenged to spread goodness tapping into the inherent goodness within each one of us, thereby making a positive, hopeful difference for the better.
The Gospel of St. Luke, read at the Chrism Mass, talks about proclaiming liberty and enlightenment, and liberating the oppressed. So, what positive message can we convey in Lord’s name? It is the uplifting news that each individual is treasured by Lord and his followers, circumstances notwithstanding. This concern is crucial: Listening, mercy and kindness must be extended unconditionally to all.
It is vital to acknowledge and appreciate the kind deeds of our fellow human beings; the joyful and uplifting stories; the improbable victories; the inspirational stories of overcoming hardships and life’s trials that people have successfully traversed.
A transformative event, the Resurrection, followed his groundbreaking teachings and extraordinary life. This event was not limited to one man but brought changes to the lives of everyone.
What kind of liberty and freedom do we declare? We assert a type of freedom that arises from forgiveness, mercy from Lord, and the realization that our lives are intertwined with God. We assert the original idea that all of us are created in the likeness of God and, therefore, can achieve great things in his name.
The mission is to contribute to God’s continuous process of creation and rejuvenation in the world.
“Does the Christian doctrine hold significance in our rapidly secularising society today? The answer is affirmative, and it is more significant now than ever. [ A new Perspective: the loudest may not be the most honourable person ]
The Christian message – the encouraging news about Jesus Christ – remains very pertinent and will retain its relevance for mankind perpetually. The Christian faith in Resurrection is a declaration of expectancy for the human race. The happenings that we recollect in our Easter rituals lead to the commemoration of the Resurrection. In the words of Pope Francis, “The resurrection of Christ is not a bygone occurrence; it carries a vital force which has infused this universe. Where everything seems devoid of life, indications of resurrection abruptly emerge. It is an insuperable power.”
Through the Resurrection, the significance of human existence to be appreciated and relished under all conditions is underlined. God holds human life in high esteem. He fashioned it, experienced it, and transformed it.
So, on this day, Easter Sunday, we exult in the fact that the Lord has risen, and we share in his resurrection. The Lord has ascended, Alleluia.
Archbishop Francis Duffy serves as the Archbishop of Tuam.”