Do Not Be Afraid
Lord,
entering the church at Hannahstown
for the Easter Sunday vigil Mass,
all is in darkness.
The tabernacle lies wide open
and empty.
The altar is bare.

But expectancy is in the air.

One by one,
lighted candles spread light
throughout the entire church.

Hope is in the air.

At the Gospel,
I sense a lightness of heart
and relief
as the two Marys reach the tomb
and an angel appears to tell them
that Jesus is risen.

Deep sorrow and despair
are replaced by elation.
Mourning and lamenting
are replaced by celebration.

Then the two Marys meet you in person
and their joy is complete.
You hasten to reassure them,
saying, “Do not be afraid.”

Lord,
please bless our wee family
this Easter season.
When life gets tough,
hasten to reassure us.

Remind us
of the hope and the promise of new life
that your Resurrection brings.

Remind us
that death is not the end.

Remind us
not to be afraid.

(Matthew, 28: 1-10)

© Claire Murray, 20th April 2014