The associated reading for this reflection can be found in your Every Sacred Sunday Mass journal or online here.
“Christ has been raised from the dead.” 1 Cor 15:20
While reflecting on today’s readings, this line from the second reading really struck me. We hear this all the time right?
Christ has been raised from the dead.
Christ died for our sins.
Christ conquered sin and death.
While those phrases carry much weight, I think I often forget their current application.
Y’all, I’m sure that we are all probably already aware of the fact that 2020 has felt like a big mess.
My personal prayer these past few months has been one of desiring the past. I have been hoping, wishing, and praying that maybe one day I will wake up and this will have all been a dream. I would be transported back to the days of seeing movies with friends, watching (and simultaneously feeling bad about watching) ABC’s The Bachelor every Monday night. Heck, I even had some dating apps downloaded and ready to go. This was going to be my year.
It feels like, quite literally, everything has become a giant mess of stress and uncertainty. Today’s second reading brings to mind that although things are messy:
Christ has indeed conquered sin and death. He has won the battle.
That’s not a passive phrase or nicety that we use to make ourselves feel better but a current surety. Job loss, quarantine, division, racism, and hopelessness don’t take away from the fact that Christ reaches in and assures us that He has indeed been raised from the dead and is alive. Christ is alive. Let’s rest in that. We can be sure of that.
And today, we are further reminded of the perfect model of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who always points to her Son and witnessed His victory over death. She is our model and loving Mother, both then and now. On this day, we remember that death did not get the final say for Mary, as even her body would not see decay. She is experiencing the new life that Christ promises us through His resurrection.
Although these days may seem monotonous and challenging, Christ assures us that we will all be brought to life. Even in the midst of uncertainty, He is calling us to do His will and His work. If we have any truth to cling to, it’s this one. We can be sure that Christ awaits us, loves us, and conquered sin and death...
For us.
Rest in that and take heart, friends.
Blessed Mother, intercede for us, point us to your Son, and wrap us in your mantle of protection, today and forevermore.
Chenele Shaw is a former youth minister and theology teacher and a current young adult trying to live her life for Christ, frequent her therapist, and eat all the cheese! She desires to be her authentic self and help others to as well. You can find her watching reality tv, going to confession, and updating her Spotify playlists. Follow her on Instagram and say hey!