The Bishop of Lira Diocese, Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok, has called on Christians to live as witnesses of the Resurrection by embracing hope, rejecting sin, and promoting peace and unity within their communities.
By Flavia Oyuu, Communications Office, Lira Diocese
The Bishop of Lira Diocese, Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok, has urged Christians to rejoice in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ and to live as witnesses of the new life brought about by the risen Lord.
Delivering his Easter Sunday homily, Bishop Wanok reminded the faithful that the Resurrection is the foundation of the Christian faith, emphasizing that Christianity stands on the truth that Christ rose from the dead.
Reflecting on the Gospel account, the Bishop explained that Mary Magdalene went to the tomb early in the morning filled with grief, confusion, and love, but instead encountered the greatest message of hope.
“She went to the tomb with grief and confusion, but what she found was not a body; she found an empty tomb. The stone had been rolled away, and the angel announced: ‘He is not here; He is risen.’”
The Bishop said the empty tomb marked the first proclamation of Easter, confirming that Jesus had conquered death.
Drawing from the Acts of the Apostles, Bishop Wanok noted that Saint Peter boldly proclaimed the Resurrection, insisting that the disciples were witnesses to what had happened.
“They put Him to death, but God raised Him on the third day. This is not imagination or a story. We are witnesses.”
He stressed that Christians identify themselves as followers of Christ precisely because Christ is alive, adding that the Resurrection remains the heart of the Christian message.
Bishop Wanok further noted that those who truly encounter the risen Lord cannot remain silent, pointing to Mary Magdalene and the disciples who went out to proclaim the Good News.
He encouraged the faithful to reflect on their own experience of God’s mercy and forgiveness.
“You may not see the empty tomb, but you have experienced His mercy and His love. Your life itself becomes the message that Christ is alive.”
Referencing Saint Paul’s message in the Letter to the Colossians, the Bishop urged Christians to “seek what is above” and not to focus solely on earthly concerns.
He explained that Easter is not just a single day, but a journey that continues throughout the fifty days leading to Pentecost.
“Easter is not just an event; it is a way of life.”
The Bishop also encouraged Christians to move from fear to courage, reminding them that the Resurrection brings hope even in moments of difficulty and uncertainty.
He acknowledged that many people face challenges such as sickness, poverty, and family struggles, but reassured them that Christ’s Resurrection offers renewed hope.
“Where there is fear in your life, family struggles, sickness, lack of food or shelter, do not be afraid. Christ is alive.”
Bishop Wanok called on Christians to embrace a new life by rejecting sin and negative behaviors such as hatred, jealousy, corruption, and dishonesty.
Turning to the social realities of the nation, the Bishop challenged Christians to promote peace, justice, and unity, particularly in Northern Uganda.
He warned that corruption, tribalism, and excessive alcohol consumption continue to undermine the moral fabric of society and urged both leaders and citizens to work toward positive change.
“Tribalism must not be seen or heard in our words or behavior. Hatred must die, and a new life must begin.”
The Bishop also called for greater compassion toward those who are suffering and urged communities to restore the dignity of the vulnerable.
Concluding his homily, Bishop Wanok encouraged Christians to follow the example of Mary Magdalene and the apostles by proclaiming the message of the Resurrection through their daily lives.
“Let us go forth like Mary Magdalene and the disciples to announce to the world that Christ is risen and truly alive.”
He prayed that the risen Lord would strengthen the faith of believers and make them witnesses of hope in their homes, communities, and across the nation.
End
Recent Comments