In Jesus Risen from the dead, we truly live!
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April 18, 2019
On the entrance wall of the Sistine Chapel, Domenico Ghirlandaio (1449-1494) had painted a magnificent fresco of the Resurrection. After it was destroyed by the collapse of the lintel of the entrance in 1522, Flemish painter Hendrick van den Broeck (1519-1597) replaced it with this present copy.
Bishop Arthur J. Serratelli
The sealed tomb is broken open. “Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep… For just as in Adam all die, so too in Christ shall all be brought to life” (1 Cor 15:20). At death, our life is changed, not ended.
The soldiers flee in terror. “Despoiling the principalities and the powers, [in Christ Crucified and Risen] i (Col 2:15). And so, even in the midst of trials and persecutions, we never lose hope. Jesus is Lord!
In the upper right hand of the fresco, the Risen Jesus ascends to heaven, leaving behind the devils who had tried to destroy his work. “…Satan, who deceived the whole world, is thrown down to earth, and his angels are hurled down with him” (Rev 12:9). Satan and his minions are defeated. No power can separate us from the love of God in Christ.
In a dazzling aureole of light, the Risen Jesus stands triumphant above his empty tomb. He has entered the glory of heaven, yet has not abandoned this world. “Behold, I am with you always” (Mt 28:20).
In Jesus Risen from the dead, we truly live!
I extend to all the faithful in the Diocese my prayers and best wishes for a blessed and happy Easter. And I invoke God’s blessings on you and all your loved ones.
