The Lord has Risen

The stone has been moved. The tomb is empty.

Our Lenten preparation has ushered in the most holiest of high holy days for Christians around the world.

Jesus Christ has risen today.

Jesus could have exited the tomb whether the stone was moved or remained in place. However, 'we' needed a concrete sign. 'Our heavy stone' being moved symbolizes the crosses we bear, the burdens we place upon ourselves, any worries lingering and feuds we have brewing with others.

They are all lifted with the risen Lord.

Our sins have been forgiven. God will continuously forgive us, grant mercy upon us and ultimately greet us with open arms when we die.

Overall, for me, a very successful Lenten Season. Looking back, I prayed more, was at peace, rarely had road rage, surrounded by daily gifts from God the Father. I offered up my gifts to the Lord. I realized the gifts God has given to me and used them to praise him. We used our gift of song at all of the Easter Masses. It was my pleasure to lift up my voice and praise you with my whole heart and soul. We decorated the most beautiful church in the diocese. We donated our time to make gifts for the kids of our parish. None ever a burden but a gift we wanted to gladly give to God and our fellow Christians.

The harder task is at hand. Can I keep up the very successful practices put into place during the Lenten Season? Only time will tell. I know one thing for sure. I definitely need you, God, every single step of the way to grant me the grace, peace of mind, patience, strength, endurance, perseverance, love and kindness toward others, and the gift of forgiveness toward others and myself.

I thank you very much for giving me the quality time I spent this weekend with Mother and the rest of my family. Time is precious. We never know what will happen in the future, but the time we spent together this weekend is a gift only God can offer. Thank you.