The three Marys at the Tomb of Christ
Konstanz Münster Westportal, 1470

My dear friends,

On the occasion of this Easter Vigil, as we await the dawning of the most glorious and joyful day of the Christian year, let us reflect on the story of the empty tomb in Luke 24:1-12. This narrative is a powerful reminder of the impermanence of life and the ultimate victory of light over darkness, hope over despair, and life over death. But even more compelling is the fact that this divine revelation was first shown to the women.

In many ancient cultures, including during the time of Jesus, women were often regarded as secondary, their voices less valued and their testimonies less credible. Yet, in this pivotal moment, it is they who are chosen as the first witnesses to the resurrection. This choice is a profound message of equality and the intrinsic worth of every human being. Just as Buddhists believe that every individual, regardless of gender, caste, or status, possesses a potential for enlightenment, Christianity too showcases that every soul is equally cherished and significant in the eyes of the Divine.

When the women shared what they had seen and heard, their words seemed like "nonsense" to the apostles. Yet, it sparked something in Peter. He doesn't dismiss their account; instead, he runs to the tomb to see for himself.

This act of rushing to the tomb can be seen as a manifestation of hope and a yearning for redemption from his recent failures: Just two days prior, under the pressure of association and fear of persecution, Peter, who had once vowed to stand by Jesus even unto death, denied Him thrice. This act of disavowal was a heart-wrenching low in Peter's spiritual journey, marking a moment of profound weakness and human frailty.

In the empty tomb, Peter didn't find an end but a new beginning. The resurrection news offered a rebirth of hope, not just for mankind's salvation, but also for Peter's personal redemption. The weight of his denial might have been lifted in realizing that Jesus' love and forgiveness transcended even the gravest of human errors. From the depths of despair and self-reproach, Peter was brought to a newfound hope and joy, one that would fuel his subsequent transformation into a pillar of the early Christian church.

This narrative arc in Peter's journey emphasizes the overarching theme of the Gospel: the power of resurrection, redemption, and the capacity for rebirth in the face of human failings. Peter's transformation from cowardice to a beacon of hope encapsulates the essence of Easter – that from death and despair can spring life and boundless hope.

As we wait to behold the dawning of Easter, let us celebrate the message of the empty tomb: the unbounded and endless possibilities that are unlocked by love.