St. John Paul II reminded us, "We are an Easter people, and Alleluia is our song." As we enter the Great 50 Days of celebrating Easter, we know Easter is not just about one day of celebration but a season of remembering God's love for us. Easter is an act of faith.

Jesus' suffering, death, and resurrection serve as a perpetual reminder of how God transcends our flaws and perceives humanity's needs. Despite the pain, suffering, and injustice that pervades our world, God's eternal grace is a balm that heals and brings us joy. The joy of this season infuses our lives with a renewed sense of purpose and meaning.

We know that human life can be messy and complicated. It doesn't always reflect beauty or bring out the best in humanity. Thanks be to God for the hope and joy that come through Jesus's Resurrection. No matter what we may be experiencing in life, we can say Alleluia anyway.

The power of Easter and the empty tomb is a testament to the fact that, through faith, we can triumph over any adversity that the world throws at us. Despite the presence of sin, poverty, pain, and death, we hold steadfast to our faith, believing that God has the final say. The joy of this season compels us to extend a selfless hand of solidarity to those around us. This is the essence of being an Easter people. 

The Resurrection of Jesus always leads us to action. Our faith is not just for ourselves. We must share our faith with the world around us. The wondrous news is that living again, like Jesus, makes us a new creation. Breaking the chains that bind us and trusting in God's strength to save us, we live to share God's love for us. Alleluia!