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April 12, 2009 - An Easter Message from Father Beck

by Father Edward L. Beck, C.P.

Once again Christians turn toward celebrating a mystery that defies rational or scientific explanation. Easter. When we say that the Resurrection of Jesus offers new life and hope to everyone. And the even deeper counter-cultural claim that suffering and death are the path to this transformation. Talk about stopping conversation at a cocktail party. But whatever your religious beliefs, I think we can all agree that life is hard. That we do struggle. And we do suffer. And, yes, ultimately we die. And whether or not you believe that life continues after this one, the cyclical pattern is undeniable. Just look around. All the plants and trees that seemed dead during this long winter are now sprouting with new birth. And the world goes round and round. And maybe at this time in your life even though you’re still breathing, parts of you feel dead. A marriage that’s gone awry. A child in the grips of addiction. A 401K dream, now a night mare. Things you’ve hoped for in your life, seemingly out of reach. But just maybe this new springtime holds a glimmer of hope for you, too. Get outside and feel the warmth of a new sun on your face. Peer into the tombs of your life and wonder if one day soon they might be empty too. After all, thousands are flocking to Washington DC this week to marvel at the explosion of color of cherry blossoms around a Tidal Basin that just a week ago was barren and bare. Hope does indeed spring eternal. Happy Easter and many blessings of new life to you and to those you love. - Fr. Edward Beck