Christ’s resurrection is the evidence that reconciliation with God is achieved. God did not leave His Son in the grave, nor did he expel him for our sins which he bore. He accepted the spotless sacrifice, he arose victor over the grave, and lived in perfect harmony with his Father. He, moreover, accepted the cross, not doing other than his Father’s will. The cross was the purpose of his coming, and it is the means of ransoming the world. So how do some say Jesus did not die on the cross?
Christ showed that he was not a phantom or a hidden spirit. He showed them the nail prints in the palms of his hand. He displayed his side for them to see the mark of the spear that pierced him. They saw the nail-prints and were persuaded that he that was with them was not a strange godling, but the Crucified himself. The Lamb of God is the conqueror. The slain One overcame death.
Little by little, the disciples began to perceive that Jesus was no specter or shadow, but a true person present with them. His new mode of being was the source of their joy. It is to our good that we believe and perceive that Jesus is the living Lord, risen from the dead. We are not orphans deserted. Our Brother in union with his Father and the Holy Spirit rules the universe for ever.
The disciple’s joy grew as a result of Christ’s victory over death. Since then, he became a living hope for us, we who are perishing. The open grave is not our end, but his life is ours. As he who is worthy of glory put it, "I am the Resurrection and the Life. He who believes in me, though he be dead, shall live. And he that lives and believes in me, shall never die."
When the disciples realized that Jesus forgives our sins, they rejoiced all the more. He assures us of atoning for us sins. So we have peace with God through his wounds.
Do you share in their joy at Easter? Do you bow before the Risen One, since he is present, grants you hope and guarantees your pardon? Jesus is alive, and joy is our portion. Therefore, the apostle Paul addresses the Church thus, "Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to all. The Lord is near."