Resurrection gives hope that nothing is impossible
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III begins with a greeting for the Glorious Resurrection Feast, praying for a blessed life and steadfastness in the Lord, and praying for prosperity and peace for our country, and also prayers for the Palestinian people and their preservation in peace in their land.
The Meaning of the Resurrection as a Miracle
The Resurrection is defined as a miracle: the rising of the dead is evidence of God’s power that surpasses human reason, just as creation itself began with a miracle. The Resurrection is a beginning of a life that does not end and overcomes the terror of death.
The Effect of the Resurrection on Faith and Christian Life
Belief in the Resurrection fills the soul with hope so the believer does not despair, and gives the ability to face hardships; because the one who believes in the Resurrection sees that nothing is impossible with God and that every problem has a solution with Him.
The Relationship of the Resurrection to Martyrdom and Sacrifice
Without the Resurrection the martyrs would not have gone forward to death joyfully seeking the crown; the Resurrection gave meaning to martyrdom and removed the sorrow of separation because believers hope to see their loved ones in the Resurrection.
The Call to Repentance and Hope
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III mentions examples of those who repented (such as the case of His Holiness Pope Shenouda III mentioned as Augustine in the lecture) to affirm that God’s grace leads to repentance and transformation, and that God can change hearts even in the darkest circumstances.
Historical and Spiritual Examples
He presents the example of many returning to faith after an era of atheism in Russia as an indication of God’s power to replace and renew, and that idolatry and corruption do not last forever.
Practical Application for the Believer Today
The Resurrection teaches the believer to live self-discipline, asceticism and hope, and not to surrender to despair, but to resort to prayer and repentance, and to believe that closed doors have keys with God.
Conclusion and Prayer
In conclusion His Holiness Pope Shenouda III congratulates everyone, prays for all good for our country, and asks that peace prevail in the Middle East and everywhere.
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