He Has Risen

Far too often, we get so caught up in the daily political back and forth that we forget to pause and take some time for reflection. This week, people of faith are celebrating important holidays–religious days where we are called not just to reflect, but to look to the days ahead in appreciation of what is most important: our faith.

For Catholics, not only have we had Holy Week this week, but we are looking ahead to the upcoming canonization of Pope John Paul II in Rome. Four years ago, I made a film with Newt and Callista Gingrich about Pope John Paul II’s historic nine-day pilgrimage to Poland in June of 1979 called Nine Days that Changed the World. This trip created a revolution of conscience that transformed Poland and fundamentally reshaped the spiritual and political landscape of the twentieth century.

As I look towards the Easter holiday, I wanted to write about what I have been reflecting on and what God has put on my heart to share with others:

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. – 1 Peter 1:3-5

On April 18, we remembered Good Friday, a somber day where we remember the Passion–the pain Christ endured and the sacrifice He made on our behalf that we might have eternal life with Him. We continue to reflect on that sacrifice as we look forward to the celebration of Easter Sunday. In the middle of the chaos that is our lives, and as so many are continuing to struggle in this economy, it’s important to use this time to remember where our hope is found. It’s not here on this earth. Our hope is in Heaven. Our hope is in Christ. And this Easter, join me in thanking our Father for sending His Son and for our salvation that comes from Him.

May you enjoy time with friends and with family this holiday, and “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” – Hebrews 12:2.

Wishing a very happy Easter to all who celebrate it–from my family to yours.