The world is filled with people who, like Mary Magdalene, are weeping beside tombs (see Jn 20:11). Spouses, parents, children, and friends have been taken away from these people, and they don't know where their dead are (see Jn 20:13). Many people have suffered very painful, crippling, even paralyzing losses through death. Moreover, in their mourning, they are confused and bewildered. In their pain and confusion, many people become life-long slaves of Satan, the prince of death (Heb 2:14-15).

"What are we to do?" (Acts 2:37) The question asked at the first Christian Pentecost echoes through the centuries. To be freed from  slavery to death's pain and confusion, we must be baptized into Jesus (Acts 2:38), "the Resurrection and the Life" (Jn 11:25). "Death is swallowed up in victory" (1 Cor 15:54). "Thanks be to God Who has given us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Cor 15:57).

After breaking the power of death (Rm 6:9) by renewing and living our Baptism into Jesus, we must receive the Holy Spirit in power (see Acts 2:38). Then we will be witnesses for the risen Christ. We will then free the billions of slaves weeping at tombs and paralyzed by the pain, bewilderment, and fear of death.

Abandon your life to the risen Christ. Be His witness (Acts 1:8).

Nihil Obstat:  Reverend Robert L. Hagedorn, July 26, 1997

Imprimatur:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, July 29, 1997