By Evelyn Jock
Rt. Rev Bishop Julius Dusin Gitom, shepherd of the Diocese of Sandakan, began his Easter message with a joyful exclamation: “Happy Easter!” He shared that there is Great Joy because the Lord has risen. The sound of the church bells, the music, and the Gloria were met with heartfelt celebration by the congregation.
He reminded everyone that, while we celebrate, many people in war-torn countries are still suffering. For them, there is no singing of “Alleluia.” He invited the faithful to pray for peace, that the leaders involved in conflicts may pursue it, for peace is the only way in which people can live in harmony and security.
At the same time, Bishop Julius called on the people to express gratitude to God for the gift of Jesus, for it is in Him that true peace is found. We give thanks that people are still inspired to believe in Him. The celebration also marked the reception of some brothers and sisters into the Church, receiving the Sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation, fully incorporated into the mystical Body of Christ.
Bishop Julius emphasized that the entire liturgical celebration carried profound meaning, particularly through the Word of God, which was deeply inspiring. He invited everyone to contemplate the mystery of the Lord’s salvation. Jesus has risen! He remains with us. He is in Heaven, yet He lives within us. As we journey through life, He walks beside us, giving meaning, guidance, and companionship on our path.
Matthew 28:1-10 mentioned two women who went to the tomb out of love for Jesus, to give Him the proper final rites and ensure a respectful burial. At the tomb, they discovered that Jesus had risen and hurried to tell the other disciples. Along the way, they encountered the Lord. Bishop Julius reminded that we too encounter Jesus in our ordinary daily lives, and that He is always present with us.
In both struggles and moments of joy, we communicate with Jesus through our daily prayers because we need Him. He is our companion within our families, parishes, and communities. We also encounter Him in the communities we belong to and at our workplaces. Jesus constantly approaches us, inspiring us to be courageous, teaching us to love as He loves, holding us to the truth, and showing us how to communicate as He has taught.
Our hearts overflow with gratitude because, no matter what the future holds, Jesus will always be by our side. We may stumble or fall, but He lifts us up and gives us another chance. Even when we distance ourselves from Him, He gently calls us to return and leads us toward our ultimate destiny in God.
Bishop Julius invites everyone to pray that we may always feel Jesus’ presence and turn to Him whenever we need Him.