Scripture:
1 Corinthians 15:1-8
John 14:6-14
Reflection:
For prayerful Easter consideration: Am I a Christian leader? Am I willing to be another Christ? Can I believe that I am such a leader? During Easter season we are celebrating the baptismal re-birth in Christ to which I have been called. Is not that the meaning of being "begotten from above," as Jesus explains to Nicodemus? Accepting the role of being a Christian leader in my every day? The Christian leader’s life has a practical expression, believe it or not. One role of a leader is to announce, proclaim, promote, and exemplify the particular mission amidst those who choose to follow. In other words, hold the ideal of the mission in my heart, and as faithfully, hopefully, and joyfully, live it. Assume situations that go counter to "the Ideal," assume as Paul that you have been "born" in an untimely fashion. Untimely? not the first Atom Bomb dropped on the feast of the Transfiguration of Jesus? Was not Osama bin Laden killed on Divine Mercy Sunday? In two different places in the Acts of the Apostles, including today, the "mission" of the Body of Christ on earth is proclaimed. It is the descriptions of the earliest Christian communities. Re-read it. Ah, if only…"of one heart and mind…none claimed anything as his own…no one was needy among them." Yes, it is the ideal. Yes, it really didn’t last long. Reality became more of a challenge (translate = persecution, destitution, unexpected demands, acceptance of "foreigners," and, the refusal to change for another’s sake). But as leaders, we keep the precious ideal of Christ, in mind and action. It all is begotten from "above." That means, do not worry about the results, it is all part of the Plan. I will constantly come up against opposition and threats. Is that not why Jesus (along with us) is lifted up? Just do it.
Fr. Alex Steinmiller, C.P. is president of Holy Family Cristo Rey High School, Birmingham, Alabama.