“You know what has happened.” So Peter tells everyone in the first reading. Many of us could no doubt recount the facts of “what has happened” when it comes to the story of Easter. We could tell about the passion and death of Jesus and how he was seen alive three days later. We know the story. But for those who follow Jesus, there’s much more than simply knowing the story.
So why are we here? Why are we in church on Easter Sunday? There are probably as many stories as there are people. In today’s homily, I look the at the stories of three people who where there on that first Easter morning. They too have their stories and their reasons.
On this blessed day of Easter, we know that many people decide to come back to church for the first time in quite a while. That’s not just a coincidence. That’s the Holy Spirit. Maybe you came because your parents made you or it’s just what you always do on Easter. Whatever your reason for coming, you have to leave with something more.
St. Peter tells us that after hearing “what has happened,” we are to be “witnesses.” No matter what brought you here, you are going to leave as a witness. What you do when you leave here will give witness to everyone around you as to what has happened…to you. John saw the empty tomb and believed. What does you life say about what you believe?
Why are you here? In the end, it doesn’t matter any more. It’s not about why you came, it’s about what you do now. What kind of witness will you be?
1 comment
Fr. Shawn, Ken and I wish you a very Blessed Easter! Listened to your homily. Always inspiring! God Bless!