The WORD in other words (2006) by Father Joseph Mirabueno SVD – Occidental Mindoro
Saturday in the Octave of Easter
Introduction
Is the Resurrection of the Lord a historical fact? The Good News of the Risen Christ can only be fully embraced in the light of faith. No one witnessed the actual moment of Jesus rising from the dead. What we have are testimonies of the empty tomb and the appearances of the Risen Lord to His disciples. As St. Jerome’s Bible Commentary notes, the empty tomb is not the proof itself, but a “necessary condition” for faith in the Resurrection.
Faith in the Risen Lord
Mary Magdalene announced: “I have seen the Lord” (John 20:18). The disciples on the road to Emmaus recognized Him in the breaking of the bread (Luke 24:30–31). Thomas, who doubted, was invited to touch His wounds, and Jesus declared: “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (John 20:29). The Resurrection is not a matter of human proof, but of divine revelation.
Resurrection Power in the Church
Even amid economic crisis and political corruption, the Philippine Church continues to experience the power of the Resurrection. World Youth Day, the World Meeting of Families, and Papal Visits have gathered millions of faithful, echoing Christ’s promise: “I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20).
The late Pope John Paul II challenged the Philippines, the only predominantly Christian nation in Asia, to be an evangelizer to its neighbors, fulfilling Christ’s mandate: “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15).
Witnesses in Daily Life
Filipinos, in their simple faith, become agents of change by promoting justice, peace, and unity. In times of calamity, they embody Christ’s compassion by offering help to victims. Though modern lifestyles and media erode traditional values, many still remain faithful to Christ and His Church, living as witnesses of the Resurrection.
Conclusion
The Resurrection is not proven by human evidence but lived through faith, hope, and love. The empty tomb points us to a greater reality: Christ is alive, and His presence transforms communities and cultures. Let us live as witnesses of the Risen Lord, proclaiming with our lives: “The Lord is truly risen, alleluia!” (Luke 24:34).
“Lord Jesus, strengthen my faith in Your Resurrection, and make me a witness of Your life in the world.”
