The readings of the Easter Vigil span human history from creation to the resurrection of Jesus. In the stories of Abraham, Moses, and the prophets, the scriptures remind us of the great figures in biblical history and the important events of salvation. God called a special people, Israel, and established a relationship of everlasting love with all humanity through them. Not surprisingly, we are told that Israel lapsed many times, but always God's word prevailed. The Old Testament readings end with a reflection on true wisdom, a renewed call to the people, and the promise of a new heart and a new spirit.

The gospel reading provides the culmination of our celebrations of this Holy Week. The women, among them Mary of Magdala, Joanna, and Mary the mother of Jesus go to the tomb and find that the stone rolled away and note the absence of the body of Jesus. They, then, remember the words of Jesus and begin to understand in faith that "He is not here; he is risen." The account seems so simple, but the witness of the women and later of the disciples will grow in strength and conviction. This proclamation of faith in Jesus as risen Lord is the heart of our faith and constitutes the essence of the Christian nessage. But, just as the women told their story to the disciples, we too must tell the story in our communities and our world.