Easter Greetings

by H.G. Mathews Mar Eppiphanios Metropolitan
Indian Orthodox Church

Beloved in risen Christ,

Jesus Christ rose from the tomb on the third day as was predicted by Him. The disciples were much worried at the fate of their Master. They were scattered. Only a few people stood at the foot of the cross. Joseph and Nicodemos were bold enough to burry the body of Jesus.

The angel of God appeared at the time of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem. Poor shepherds were favored to hear the words of the angel:

"Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a savior, who is Christ the Lord, This will be the sign to you, You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths lying in a manger."

In the same way the poor ladies who went to the sepulcher early in the morning were favored with good tiding. Though they could not find the body of Jesus, and were perplexed, they saw two men sitting in shining garments.

"Why do you seek the living among the dead?" they asked. "He is not here; he is risen."

The shepherds found the child wrapped in swaddling cloths and returned to their job. They praised the Lord and witnessed to others about their experience. Similarly the women were convinced about the resurrection and witnessed to the Apostles about what they heard and believed. The wise men from the east entered Herod’s palace to see the king of the Jews. Actually they were seeking the living among the dead. They could see the living only with the guidance of the star.

The message of Easter is the good tidings. Jesus is risen. It is a good news for the whole world. It proclaims Jesus’ victory over death. It is the victory of all those who accept the good news. It is the victory of Jesus, over the power of Satan. True believers share the benefit. Jesus came down to take away the sin of the world. He has risen from the dead to take us back to heaven.

The news of the resurrection of Jesus gladdened the disciples who were sorry for their Master’s apparent disaster. The sorrowful experience on Friday gave way to gladness and hope on Sunday. The angels adored their Lord. The disciples joined the heavenly host in praising the risen Lord. Let us join the innocent shepherds in praising the child of Bethlehem. May the heavenly host prompt us to adore the risen Lord because He is the source of life and joy to all.

May God fill your hearts with the peace and love and Easter. God bless everyone.

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