For Catholics, Easter is the most important feast of the year, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It signifies the triumph of life over death and the promise of eternal life.
The meaning and saving significance of the Resurrection is the fulfillment of the promises both of the Old Testament and of Jesus himself during his earthly life. This truth of Jesus’ divinity is confirmed. Closely linked to the Incarnation, it is fulfillment in accordance with God‘s eternal plan.
This Paschal mystery has two components. By his death, Christ liberates us from sin. By his Resurrection, he opens for us the way to a new life. We are reinstated in God‘s grace.
Christ’s Resurrection-and the risen Christ himself-is the principle and source of our future resurrection: “Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep…. For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive.” The risen Christ lives in the hearts of his faithful while they await that fulfillment. In Christ, Christians “have tasted…. the powers of the age to come” and their lives are swept up by Christ into the heart of divine life, so that they may “live no longer for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised.” (CCC 655)
Out with the old way of life, in with the new. Death is conquered, freedom is given and the slavery of our souls is abolished. We are made alive again.
Christ is Risen! Alleluia!
Smitten With Goodness 