April 13

Readings for the Day: ACTS 2:14, 22-33 PS 16:1-2, 5, 7-11 MT 28:8-15

Donald Henry Lins.

The man was my hero. He had a tremendous level of education, but never felt the need to flaunt it. He spent months of his retirement serving in Jeremy Wharf (the most dangerous and impoverished part of Haiti). While everyone else watched personal televisions at their stations during dialysis, he never turned his on…so he could spend his time praying for them.

My dad died just over a decade ago, but I still miss him.

I’m sure you know the feeling. Most of you have also suffered tremendous loss.

Easter is the season that celebrates Jesus rising from the dead. So this is the season that reminds us death has lost its sting. It reminds us we have nothing to fear. It reminds us that those who died in Christ are truly in an infinitely better place than ourselves. It reminds us people like Donald Henry Lins won’t need dialysis machines ever again…and they are now praying for us.

This season reminds us what the future holds. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

David is the Director of Faith Formation at Our Lady of Joy.

If you have comments or questions, send your emails to dlins@oloj.org.

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