Reflection - Easter Vigil

Genesis 1:1-2:2
Romans 6:3-11
Mark 16:1-8

Martha LaVallee, Associate

"Thus the heavens and the earth and all their array were completed…"

One of the most meaningful parts of my life has been witnessing the birth of my first grandchild and watching her grow over the past two years. The gift of creation shines anew when a brand new human being takes her first breath. I was blessed to attend her birth, and the power of God was palpably there as she and my daughter worked to bring her into this world. Our joy as a family welcoming her was overwhelming, a reminder of the wonder of all of creation including this human life we have been given.

"...so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of God, we too might live in newness of life."

But there was more to this joy. As we stood in her parents' church, Catherine Elizabeth was baptized and received a share in that new life that will change everything for her. As a part of the Body of Christ, one with God and with her brothers and sisters in Christ, her life will be one of abundance of gifts beyond her physical creation. Each of us experiences this miracle, that by dying with Christ, by choosing love over sin, we live in newness of life. The story is so simple, so familiar. And I am truly grateful to God for creation, for life, but most especially for the new life that overcomes sin and death.

"Do not be amazed! He has been raised. He is going before you to Galilee."

Of course they were amazed. This was new. The women were not as familiar with the story of the Risen Christ as we are. They were told that Christ was going before them. That was their hope. And this is our hope - that just as we trusted God in letting go of the old, in dying with Christ, so we can trust that Christ goes before us. Often we cannot see the way; the path becomes blurred, and we fear we will not be up to the journey. But with life in Christ comes the assurance that the answers and strength will come to lead us through the difficult times. As I look at my darling granddaughter, I know that she has received gifts beyond what those who love her can give. She will know God. She will know that Christ is on the way, and that she can follow. In her birth and baptism she has told us the story once again, and it has become new.