“May the light of the Resurrection renew our love for Christ, who opened for us the path to new life.”

First Reading: Acts 10:34a, 37-43 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23 Second Reading: Colossians 3:1-4 or  1 Corinthians 5:6b-8 Gospel Acclamation: 1 Corinthians 5:7b-8a Gospel: John 20:1-9

This Easter Sunday Reflection is by Fr. John Ghansah, SJ. Provincial, African North-West Province.

The Resurrection proclaims the ultimate defeat of death, the triumph over violence and hatred, and the restoration of friendship, love, and harmony.

Today, our world is overwhelmed by anxiety and fear. Escalating tensions and conflict involving Israel, the United States, and Iran have pushed the global community into deep uncertainty. Violence breeds more violence; destruction follows destruction. Closer to home, we continue to face heartbreaking tragedies. In recent months, communities in Kwara and Benue States have endured brutal attacks, with hundreds of innocent villagers and farmers killed. These wounds weigh heavily on our collective conscience.

Yet it is precisely within this darkness—these wars, fears, and needless killings—that the message of Easter speaks with renewed power. Easter reminds us that death is not the final word. Taking the life of perceived enemies does not create a better world. Greed, especially the plundering of others’ resources, offers no true path to peace. God has spoken with divine finality: He raised His Son, Jesus Christ, from the dead.

Consider Mary Magdalene, whose love for Jesus remained unwavering. She witnessed her beloved Lord crucified and came to mourn at the tomb, only to find His body “taken away.” In her cry lies a profound truth: no human violence can touch Him again, for death itself has been conquered. Her perseverance—her return to the tomb driven by deep love and faith—leads her into the glorious encounter with the Risen Christ. In her tears of sorrow, she meets a new reality: Jesus lives.

For centuries, the proclamation “Jesus is risen!” has echoed in the hearts of believers. It is a declaration of hope, affirming that love is stronger than death, that hatred does not prevail, and that victory is found not in power or weapons but in friendship with the One who created all things and makes all things new.

As we celebrate this Easter, may the light of the Resurrection renew our love for Christ, who opened for us the path to new life. May we rediscover our true identity as children of the Resurrection—people who set their hearts on higher things and who seek to live in harmony with all God’s children.

Happy Easter!