Easter Sunday

 

Easter Sunday Reflection

As I write this reflection, the campus is quiet, and snowflakes are falling outside my office window. Students and some faculty have departed for well-deserved breaks from studies and teaching. Many have gone off to warmer climates to enjoy spring. And most will spend time with family as we celebrate Holy Week and Easter.

This is a special time of year.  The days are getting longer, and in some places the air is getting warmer and flowers are starting to reappear. This time of year renews our attitudes and pulls us out of our winter isolation. This also is a sacred time of year. Nature reflects the greater reality of the Resurrection’s renewal of our spirits and filling us with hope.

But Easter is not for spectators. As Jesus washed the feet of his disciples, we are called to reach out to our neighbor with loving deeds of service. As Jesus gave his life on the cross so that others may live, we are called to give our lives to improving our world and the lives of others.  As Jesus brought joy to the world by rising and giving us the hope of everlasting life, so we are meant to share Christ’s joy with our families, neighbors, colleagues, and all those we encounter.

St. Thomas has recommitted itself to ensuring that our educational mission is accomplished “all for the common good.” But a slogan rings hollow unless we constantly use it to assess and measure our actions. We must continually ask ourselves how we are improving people’s lives and recommit ourselves to doing so.  

Easter is a time of celebration and a time of renewal. May you be blessed with the peace and joy of the Holy Spirit and renewed to live your mission of advancing the common good.

President Julie Sullivan