Easter Reflection by Father Anthony Lawir

“The Lord is Risen – The Earth is Full of His Goodness” (Ps.33).

Alleluia! Christ is risen! He is truly risen! Alleluia!

Today, the Church bursts forth in joy as we celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ - the triumph of life over death, light over darkness, and hope over despair. The empty tomb is not a sign of loss, but the greatest proclamation of victory: God’s love has conquered sin, and His goodness now fills the earth. The Psalmist proclaims, “The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord” (Psalm 33:5). On this Easter morning, these words take on a deeper and more radiant meaning. The resurrection is not only an event of the past; it is a living reality that transforms our present and gives direction to our future. The risen Christ renews creation, restores our dignity, and calls us to become witnesses of His goodness in the world.

In the resurrection, we see that God’s goodness is not defeated by suffering or the cross. Rather, it shines through them. The wounds of Christ are now glorified; His sacrifice becomes the source of our salvation. This assures us that in our own struggles, trials, and uncertainties, God’s goodness is still at work, and this is noticed often in ways unseen, yet always powerful. Easter invites us, therefore, to a renewed vision:

To see the world not as abandoned, but as redeemed.

To recognize in every act of love, forgiveness, and compassion the presence of the risen Lord.

To become bearers of hope in a world that longs for meaning and healing.

As Christians, we are called to reflect this goodness in our daily lives. The resurrection is not only to be celebrated; it is to be lived. When we forgive others, we proclaim that Christ is risen. When we serve the poor, we make his goodness visible. When we choose faith over fear, we testify that the tomb is empty.

Let this Easter be a moment of renewal for each of us. May we rise with Christ from all that holds us bound such as sin, doubt, discouragement … and walk in the newness of life he offers. Let our families, our parish, and our community become places where the goodness of the Lord is clearly seen and deeply felt. As we rejoice today, may our hearts echo the Easter proclamation: The Lord is risen indeed, and his goodness fills the earth! Alleluia! Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed and joyful Easter.

Father Anthony Lawir is pastor of Our Lady of the Snows Parish in Dexter and St. Agnes Parish in Pittsfield.