Easter: Hope in the Midst of Battle

The Easter Sequence - Victimæ paschali laudes

Christians, to the Paschal Victim

Offer your thankful praises!

A Lamb the sheep redeems;

Christ, who only is sinless,

Reconciles sinners to the Father.

Death and life have contended in that combat stupendous:

The Prince of life, who died, reigns immortal.

Speak, Mary, declaring

What you saw, wayfaring.

“The tomb of Christ, who is living,

The glory of Jesus’ resurrection;

bright angels attesting,

The shroud and napkin resting.

Yes, Christ my hope is arisen;

to Galilee he goes before you.”

Christ indeed from death is risen, our new life obtaining.

Have mercy, victor King, ever reigning!

Amen. Alleluia.

"He is not here."

With those words, spoken by the messenger of God, the reality of the Resurrection was revealed to the world. The empty tomb proclaims that death and sin have been conquered. Every time I reflect on the Resurrection, I’m struck by the awe the women at the tomb must have felt that morning — confusion, fear, and overwhelming joy. I also wonder what went through the minds of those who persecuted Him. 

And yet, even in the light of the Resurrection, the Prince of Darkness continues his work in this world. His followers — willing or unwitting — carry out his will by twisting truth, sowing confusion, and offering false promises. Evil is repackaged as good; deception cloaked in virtue. As the enemy works to blur the lines, we see morality mocked and genuine love labeled as hate. Through relentless attacks on our faith, our freedoms, and the sanctity of life, we witness the spiritual battle that still rages.

But today, we celebrate the fulfillment of Our Lord’s promise. On this most glorious day, our fears are vanquished and our hearts are lifted. The Resurrection reminds us that the ultimate war between good and evil has already been won. For three days, it seemed like Satan had triumphed — but three days are nothing compared to eternity. Easter is our strength and our hope. It empowers us to persevere through trials, resist temptation, and stand firm in the face of persecution.

So today, we rejoice. Easter is the fulfillment of Christ’s promise of eternal life. It is the triumph of good over evil. Easter calls us to live with courage, to remain vigilant, and never to surrender to darkness.

Wishing you a blessed and joy-filled Easter. May the light and joy of the Resurrection remain in your heart all year long.

Happy Easter!

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