Monday in the First Week of Easter

“Let the heavens rejoice’ (1 Chr.16:31) because Christ is Risen. The tomb is empty, and the blood-stained cross has freed us from all our sins. God became man so that we might share in his divinity. The immortal one died so that we might share in his immortality. God’s love for us is stronger than death. Because Christ is risen from the dead, death no longer has dominion over us. The wounds that were inflicted by a world that rejected him have become signs of His love and forgiveness. He who was nailed to the cross by sinful men now stretches out his arms to draw us into his loving embrace.

“Let earth be glad” (1 Chr. 16:31) because Christ has conquered death by his death. The one who drained the cup of suffering invites us to join him at the Banquet of Life. He who descended into the realms of darkness and death has become the path to Life for us. Christ our Lord and our hope has risen from the dead and reigns immortal. Because of God’s abundant mercy, we can say with the psalmist, “Lord, you alone are my portion and my cup. You keep me safe and restore my life” (Ps. 16:5). Christ’s resurrection is the cause of our joy. “Let the sea and all it contains shout” (Ps. 96:11). Christ has granted eternal life to all who were in the tomb.

“Death, where is your sting? Hell, where is your victory? Christ is risen, and you are overthrown. Christ is risen, and the demons are cast out. Christ is risen, and the angels rejoice. Christ is risen, and life reigns. For Christ, being risen from the dead, has become the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. To Him be glory and dominion unto ages of ages. Amen” (Saint John Chrysostom).

May the soul of Pope Francis rest in peace. Amen.