Gospel in Art: Easter Sunday

The Resurrection, painting by a follower of Dieric Bouts, 1480 © Alte Pinakothek, Munich

Source: Christian Art

Gospel of 20 April 2025
Luke 24:1-12

On the first day of the week, at early dawn, the women went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel. And as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, 'Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and on the third day rise.' And they remembered his words, and returning from the tomb they told all these things to the Eleven and to all the rest. Now it was Mary Magdalene and Joanna and Mary the mother of James and the other women with them who told these things to the Apostles, but these words seemed to them an idle tale, and they did not believe them. But Peter rose and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by themselves; and he went home marvelling at what had happened.

Reflection on the painting

Last night at the Easter Vigil here at Westminster Cathedral, we entered a church that was almost entirely in darkness. The only source of light was the Easter candle. Little by little, that light was shared as each of us lit our own candles from it. Jesus said, 'I am the light of the world', and he gave his followers the assurance that they would never walk in darkness but would have the light of life. The lighting of the Easter candle and the passing on of its flame beautifully symbolise this declaration and promise. Easter is, above all, a celebration of light!

Each Sunday, when we gather for Mass, we celebrate the light of the risen Christ, a light that no darkness can ever extinguish. From the very beginning, Christians have come together on this day, the day of the resurrection, to share in the Eucharist.

The spirit of generous service shown by the women at the tomb in our Gospel reading, reflects the spirit of the risen Christ. But where do we encounter the risen Lord today? The women were searching in the wrong place, he was not among the dead. The angelic messengers said to them, 'Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here.' The risen Lord is found where life flourishes. He is found where the Holy Spirit is active and life-giving. We meet him in acts of tenderness and care for those who are most fragile and in need. We encounter him in communities shaped by faith, where Christ is at the heart of all we do. He is present in those who live out the gospel message with courage, even when it demands great sacrifice. We recognise him in all efforts to challenge and overcome the many forms of violence and death that surround us.

Our painting by a follower of Dieric Bouts depicts the resurrected Christ, emerging from his tomb. He is portrayed with a serene expression, holding a staff adorned with a cross, symbolising victory over death. His right hand is raised in blessing. Surrounding the tomb are Roman soldiers, depicted in various poses of sleep or astonishment, emphasizing the miraculous nature of the resurrection. An angel is also present, positioned near the tomb. In the background on the left we see Jesus as gardener holding a shovel meeting Mary. In the background on the right we see the Ascension.

Dear readers in Christ. May the joy of the Risen Lord fill your hearts and homes this Easter season. May his light guide your path, his peace dwell within you, and his love renew your spirit each day. As we celebrate the triumph of life over death, may I wish every blessing to you and your loved ones this Easter.

LINKS

Gospel in Art: https://christian.art/
Today's Reflection: https://christian.art/daily-gospel-reading/luke-24-1-12-2025-2/ (with audio)