How do we, as brothers and sisters sharing this beautiful earth together, keep one another from despairing? We must share the Good News that has strengthened our own hearts and minds!

That is exactly what happened on the first Easter when the two women found the stone rolled away from Jesus’ tomb. And when they went in, they did not find his body. Though they were perplexed, it was the angel of the Lord who was standing by, wearing dazzling white apparel who said, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? Do not be afraid, he is not here, for he has risen.” And they remembered his words.

Pope Francis, in his Easter homily, said that the two women heard these words of hope as they stood before a tomb. Today, we, too, are standing before what appears like a tomb. Our country is shut down, the streets are deserted, train stations are quiet, schools and playgrounds are empty, stores and restaurants are closed, and everyone is locked inside their homes.

 The Holy Father said, “Do not be afraid, do not yield to fear, this is a message of hope. Jesus’ hope is different. He plants in our hearts the conviction that God is able to make everything work unto good because even from the grave he brings life. You only need to ask him: ‘Jesus, come to me amid my fears and tell me, too: Courage!’”

With you, Lord, we will be tested but not shaken. Whatever sadness may dwell in us, we will be strengthened in hope, since with you the Cross leads to the Resurrection, because you are with us in the darkness of our nights; you are certainty amid our uncertainties, the Word that speaks in our silence, and nothing can ever rob us of the love you have for us.”

This is Good News! Go tell someone today!

Mary Neary is a motivational speaker, retreat leader and member of Sacred Heart Parish, Riverton.