There is a stillness in the world today as we wait in anticipation. I can only imagine what it must have been like to be a follower of Jesus the day after His death on the cross. I liken it to a heartbreak—like when you believed in something so fiercely, only to see it fail, or when a prayer is met with a resounding “No.” Yet, a breath held in anticipation carries a glimmer of hope that the story isn’t over. A quiet whisper stirs, suggesting that perhaps you’ve misunderstood the new reality unfolding before you. On that day, thousands of years ago, the world must have been steeped in doubt, confusion, and grief.

I imagine those closest to Jesus were stunned. The man they had come to know without a doubt as the Son of God had died. The man they had abandoned their lives to follow was suddenly gone. Jesus, who had literally raised others from the dead, did not rise… yet.

Fast forward 2,000 years (give or take a few), and most of us now await with eager anticipation. Many are shopping today for last-minute Easter meals to serve tomorrow or clothes to wear to Mass. Some are decorating Easter eggs or joining in egg hunts. But do we truly grasp the torment that those nearest to Jesus might have endured?

How great is the moment when we realize that torment came to an end. JESUS IS RISEN. This isn’t merely a one-time event locked in the past—HE IS STILL RISEN. How beautiful is the truth that Christ overcame DEATH! Because of this, we all have the opportunity to live with Him in heaven. Death no longer holds power over us, and therefore neither should doubt, confusion or grief. Tomorrow we will celebrate the greatest feast in the universe! Oh, Glorious day!

How do you think those closest to Jesus felt the day after his death?

Lord, give me the grace to endure patiently times of waiting. Amen.