FR. DANIEL EVBOTOKHAI
ANASTASIS: THE RISE THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING
ACTS 10:34, 37-43; PSALM 118; COLOSSIANS 3:1-4; JOHN 20:1-9
The word “Resurrection” comes from the Greek word “Anastasis,” meaning “raising up” or “standing up.” Jesus rose up after His death, just as He prefigured on His way to Calvary when He fell and rose again. Resurrection is different from resuscitation. Jesus is the only one who rose from the dead never to die again—this is true resurrection (Romans 6:9). In contrast, others like Lazarus (John 11:43–44), the widow of Nain’s son (Luke 7:11–15), Jairus’ daughter (Mark 5:41–42), and Dorcas (Acts 9:36–41) were brought back to life but eventually died again. Their experiences were temporary restorations, not eternal triumph over death. Only Christ’s resurrection marks victory over death and the promise of eternal life.
Hence, the Bible emphasizes the importance of the resurrection, stating in 1 Corinthians 15:14 that without it, “our preaching is in vain and our faith is in vain.” Romans 1:4 declares that the resurrection is a powerful affirmation of Jesus as the Son of God. In John 11:25, Jesus says, “I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, though he may die, he shall live.” Thus, the resurrection is not an optional doctrine—it is the very cornerstone of Christian belief and without the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the entire Christian faith collapses. The resurrection is the proof of Jesus’ divine nature and the guarantee of our eternal hope. Without it, Christianity becomes just another moral philosophy—but with it, it is the living power of salvation.
This Easter Sunday marks the dawn of a new era for the disciples and for us. Let us follow Mary’s example and share the news of the resurrection with others, both in words and deeds:
- Be His Witnesses: To be his witness is to be his example. The woman from whom Jesus cast out seven demons was the first to see the resurrected Christ and recognize Him. She was given the mandate to tell others, and we too are called to witness. As Christians, witnessing is our business. Wherever we are, we should permeate that place with God’s presence. Let our lifestyle reflect our faith through truth, love, sharing the Gospel, generosity, and prayer. In fact the three keys of Lent—prayer, fasting, and almsgiving—remain essential even after Lent. Easter gives us the confidence to continue these practices as we strive to witness effectively.
- Seek the Things That Are Above: In the Second Reading, St. Paul advises us to seek the things that are above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Many Christians today are focused on earthly things, leading to greed. Before His death, the disciples argued about who was the greatest, but after the resurrection, their mindset changed. They focused on gathering in the upper room and winning souls. Easter resets our minds, reordering them toward heaven and eternal values.
- The Grave Is Not Our Final Destination: The resurrection shows us that no matter how dire our circumstances, God has the power to change them. Hosea 13:14 says, “I will ransom them from the power of Sheol; I will redeem them from death.” Never give in to despair; darkness may last through the night, but joy comes in the morning. Jesus tells us in John 14:1-3 that He goes to prepare a place for us and will come again to take us to Himself. The resurrection proves His power to fulfill this promise. Beloved in Christ, our belief in the resurrection should foster a holy life. The grave is not our final destination; we will dwell with Him. More so, The word cemetery originates from a Greek term meaning “a sleeping place” or “lodging place.” This implies that the grave is not our final destination but a temporary rest. As Christians, we believe in the resurrection and eternal life beyond the grave. “Up from the grave, He arose”
- The Resurrection Is a Change of Position: When they came to look for Him at the grave, He was no longer there. Our position should equally change; our lifestyle should reflect the resurrection. Luke 24:6 reminds us, “He is not here, but has risen.” I pray that by the power of the risen Christ, after our earthly journey, the grave will not be our final destination. And any demon looking for you among the dead will not see you, when they look for those who have failed, they will not see you. You shall rise with will and reign with him.
- Happy Easter!!!
