See I Make All Things New

This is the message of Easter.  The Risen Christ takes whatever needs to be changed or modified or transformed in our lives and comes out of the tomb to offer us a fresh start.  He comes out of the tombs of our old behavior, of our doubt, of our mistrust, or of any type of reliance on false gods or securities with a new way of being for us.  We all rise with Christ during the Easter season.  Each of us is renewed and reenergized.

As Dominicans, when we make our vows, the Prioress (which means one among equals) will pose this question to us:  “What do you ask?”  And, each sister answers with the same response, “I ask for the mercy of God and yours.”  What an incredible promise we make to each other - mercy!  It is no wonder that the Old Testament prophets said that mercy flowed like a river.  To live mercifully means to live believing in the newness of Resurrection.  Just like the Risen Christ’s renewing spirit, we renew and reenergize each other with our mercy.  And, the most important part of being merciful is that it does not depend upon the other’s response.  I can still dig deep within my well of mercy and let it flow no matter what – just when another may need it.  And, one of my sisters will be there for me when I need it too.   I have a favorite card.  It says, “Success consists of getting up once oftener than you fall down!”  That is what our mercy for each other does!    

So, where is Resurrection happening in your life?

Peggy Ryan, OP

Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin