UPON THOSE IN THE TOMBS

Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down death by death, and upon those in the tombs bestowing life.” (Paschal Troparion-hymn)

Christ is risen! – as most of you have probably heard. I for one have heard the news many times, throughout the years, in previous celebrations of this beautiful Feast of Feasts, Pascha. And I’ve “heard” it in different ways, at different points in my life.

Let me truly “hear” the news of our Lord’s rising from “the dead” this Easter Sunday, that I may once again choose to “rise” in Him, and to receive wholeheartedly the life He is “bestowing,” yet not forcing, upon me. As I “rise” to the occasion of celebrating the Lord’s resurrection at this unusual time of the Covid19-induced isolation, I recognize that I have a choice, – either to be with “those in the tombs” and dead-ends of self-reliance and self-isolation outside of God’s grace, or to re-connect with the risen Lord in some heartfelt prayer, embracing His light-bringing and life-giving presence in my life, however or wherever it happens to be. Today “I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the Lord” (Ps 117/118: 17), because I have that choice. “Let God arise, and let His enemies be scattered.” Amen! Christ is risen, dear friends! Please tune in to our daily, weekday “Morning Coffee” audio-podcasts, for some daily inspiration on our journey through this Coronavirus epidemic! Join our ca. 500 faith-inspired subscribers at: patreon.com/sistervassa. Love from Vienna, and please wash your hands & take heart, Sister Vassa