After Easter 

   The Acts of the Apostles records the early beginnings of the Church.  Though the apostles hid for many days in fear of the Jews, at Pentecost they were filled with the Holy Spirit and emboldened to begin the mission for which they had been chosen; they founded the Church that Christ had said He would build upon the rock of Peter.

   They suffered greatly for their efforts.  They were arrested, beaten, placed in chains, and locked in prison for their faith.  All but John would suffer martyrdom.  They would go to the ends of the world as it was known at that time, spreading the good news.  They would build a Church that has continued for over two thousand years and will continue until Christ comes again in all His glory.

   Would our religious leaders of today be willing to sacrifice as the apostles did?  I pray that most would, but there are far too many who have grown accustomed to the life they live.  They like the honor and prestige their position often brings.  Some live in mansions with servants, chauffeurs, and such.  They have become like the politicians and the executives of major corporations; isolated and unaware of the trials and issues that face their flocks. Would they be willing to give it all up, to suffer as the early apostles did and even give their life for their faith?

   And what about the laity?  How many will live the spirit of Easter now that it is past?  Most will return to everyday life, never reflecting on the meaning and blessing of Easter until next year when Ash Wednesday begins another Lenten season.  Many made sacrifices during Lent, but how many will continue to sacrifice a little something each day to honor the sacrifices that Christ made for us.

   Yesterday we celebrated the resurrection of our Lord.  In a short while we will celebrate Pentecost, the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles.  How many of us will allow the Holy Spirit to reign in our lives as they did?  How many will forget about Easter and all it means until next year?