By Emmanuel Enebeli
UGBOMORO/Nigeria: Christians have been admonished to live and die in Christ, following the example set by Jesus Christ who gave His life for the redemption of mankind. This call was made by Rev. Fr. Francis Ishevire of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Ugbomoro, in Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, during his Easter Sunday homily.
Preaching from the readings of the day — Acts 10:34a, 37-43; 1 Corinthians 5:6b-8; and John 20:1-9 — Rev. Fr. Ishevire emphasized that the resurrection of Christ is the anchor of Christian faith. He stated that the hope of every true Christian should rest on the assurance that those who live and die in Christ will rise with Him on the Last Day.
The priest urged believers not to fear death, reminding them that physical death is not the end for those who remain steadfast in Christ. According to him, dying in Christ guarantees resurrection and eternal life, just as Christ Himself triumphed over death and the grave.
He further noted that living a life modeled after Christ — marked by faith, love, sacrifice, and obedience — is essential for anyone who hopes to partake in the glory of the resurrection. “Christians must embrace a life that reflects the light of Christ, knowing that their journey does not end in the grave but continues into eternal glory,” he said.
Rev. Fr. Ishevire concluded his homily by encouraging the faithful to see Easter not merely as a celebration, but as a profound reminder of their calling to live in holiness and prepare for the resurrection, which he described as the ultimate fulfillment of Christian hope.
