The Resurrection of Jesus changes us, changes things. His victory over sin and death is for all time. When we celebrate the Eucharist, the same single event of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection is present again. This is the same sense of “memory” or “memorial” that our older brothers and sisters in the faith, the Jewish People, have regarding liturgical celebration. When they celebrate the Passover, the same saving event of their liberation from Egypt is present again, not just recalled or remembered. God is Master of space-time and Inventor of time. The Holy Spirit bends reality, past and present, and makes the historical event present and real for us today. That is why we place so much emphasis on the Easter celebrations. That is why each and every Mass is so important to us. Jesus’ one saving event is fully present to us again.
We can “plug into” the power and meaning of Jesus’ Salvation. When we enter into deep prayer and appreciate what the Lord has done for us His Grace is available to us. In the Mass, most of all, His Saving Event is right there for us.Beyond this, every time I triumph over a temptation, every time I avoid the nasty remark or the gossip, every time I push myself to do the good deed or take the high road Jesus’ Victory is realized in me. When I endure trials and suffering for His sake or that of a brother or sister I share in His saving love.
Day after day I share in Jesus’ great Mission on our behalf. Every day is full of small experiences of death and resurrection, of loss and gain, of letting go and new life. Recall His Passion and Resurrection frequently. Keep a crucifix in a prominent place in the home to be reminded. Know that His Victory touches my life now and assures me of everlasting life. And be very grateful for all God has done for us out of Pure Love.