Easter Morning homily at Divine Mercy Parish in Las Vegas.
I asked the congregation to follow me over to the side altar where Fr Erick had placed a stature of Jesus lying in the tomb. I uncovered the stature and whispered: “How could this have happened.” Then I shared that this moment was the darkness in our lives and shared a sad story that Fr Erick and I were informed on Wednesday that a parishioner caring for her mom in her home had died and went to heaven.
However, I pointed to the beautiful painting of the image that showed the resurrection of the Divine Mercy of Jesus. Yes, there is darkness in our lives but let me share some wonderful moments of the resurrection.
On Saturday, Fr. Erick asked me to baptize a child. Thinking it would be a baby, instead I was pouring the waters of baptism over the forehead of three-year Mateo. Fr. Matt was baptizing little Matthew and told his parents and godparents that he is now a child of God. Lots of smiles. A true Resurrection moment.
Then Fr. Erick asked me to join him to celebrate a renewal of marriage vows for a couple from Mexico to be held at the wedding chapel in a casino. Fr, Erick offered the traditional Mexican blessings that included the rosary lasso, candles and coins asking God to bless thirty years of fidelity love and devotion. However, the casino wedding coordinator told Fr Erick he had only one hour to complete the ceremony in another words watch you time.
This wedding coordinator shared she lived in New York City and I replied I’m from Buffalo. Instant connection, but then she asked if after the ceremony I would offer her and her staff a blessing. When the couple and family were having pictures taken, the coordinator brought in seven members of the wedding staff I offered a this blessing. “May God bless each of you for the joy you bring couples and families celebrating their union, may God keep you and your family safe and in good health.” As they raised their heads they each were wiping tears from their eyes I believe this was another resurrection moment because they realized that God loves them as his sons and daughters and will be to help them in their times of darkness.
Yes, one more resurrection moment occurred in the grocery store where Fr. Erick picked up150 little bread loaves to give to his parishioners on Easter morning. A lady who had cancer was checking out and Fr. Erick said I had blessed her last Easter. Thankfully, she was in remission. She came togive me a hug and more tears and I offered a blessing for continued healing.
Yes, there is darkness that may last a day or for many seasons, but we need to be aware of the moments where God makes his love known and that comes whenever we offer God’s compassion and mercy.
I just heard about Pope Francis passing into heaven. May angels lead him to Paradise and bless him with eternal peace.
Lord, I pray for all my Sonshine Friend this Easter. May we all enjoy the truth that Christ is Risen. Christ is Risen, Indeed!
