LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE
…an Easter Reflection
from Father Bill Kremmell
Easter Greeting: “He is risen!”
Response: He is truly risen!”
We say it, but do we truly believe it? Do we believe that Jesus died and, three days later, rose from the dead. Do we believe his promise, “I will be with you always until the end of time.” If you believe it, what evidence have you experienced that he is present with you here and now? Are you looking for some real sign of his real presence, especially during this Easter season?
In my own life, as I struggle with a decrease in mobility and a lack of energy, I experience the presence of the risen Lord in the kind words and thoughtful deeds of family, friends, and neighbors. Many people encourage me to do the best I can with what I’ve got. When I’m feeling anxious or afraid, I remember the words of the risen Lord, “Peace be with you,” spoken to his disciples, and I sense him saying something similar to me through the uplifting words of so many people in my life. Yes, he is risen and is with me.
Recently I came across a story about Johnny Barnes. Johnny was a native of Bermuda who, in his retirement, could be found, five days a week, from 4:00 to 10:00 am, standing at a rotary in the city of Hamilton, waving at passersby, and shouting out to them, “I love you...God bless you.” He did that for years, until be was into his nineties. His mission: to make his light (the light of Christ} shine and to make people happy as they began their day. He was known by all who saw him as Mister Happy Man, Mr Feel Good, an angel of love. He was a simple man who revealed the presence of the risen Lord in profound ways. He died in 2016, but he continues to reveal Christ risen, as his story recently did for me.
So where have you experienced the risen Lord? If you believe in his presence, you will find him in wonderful and unexpected ways. And, as you experience him, Jesus will invite you to share his presence with others by your words of encouragement and your simple acts of loving kindness. Speak up: “He is risen; he is with you; he loves you and I do too!”
NOTE: Google Johnny Barnes and view a beautiful video about him.