The Exsultet is a beloved Easter proclamation that announces the beginning of the Resurrection Vigil. It is often sung by the priest, deacon, or another designated minister, depending on the needs of the local church community. I still recall rehearsing it for hours during my year as a transitional deacon, carrying within me the anticipation and joy of being called into full-time sacerdotal ministry in the Order of Melchizedek. Though I have now served for several years, those moments remain vivid, fresh, as though they happened yesterday.
Why such gladness, one might ask? Because darkness can never overcome the light, and the Easter celebration renews that enduring truth. I do not intend to prolong this reflection, but I feel the pressure to remind us that, through our baptism, we have become agents of God, entrusted with the mission of transformation, called to move from the dark terraces of life into God’s marvelous light. Perhaps we once lived in darkness, but no longer. As disciples of the light, we are appointed as God’s ambassadors, becoming His eyes, ears, hands, and feet in the world. One of the functions of the eye is to see, and the feet to move; so too are we called to act intentionally, using all that we are to fulfill God’s purposes and bring about meaningful change.
In humility, following the example of Jesus Christ (Matthew 11:28–30), we are invited to leave behind traces of faithfulness. These witnesses will speak to future generations about how we sought to glorify God and transform the world. Yes, we can do this. And now is the time to step forward, in whatever way we can, to become instruments of the change we, and all people of goodwill, long to see in the world.
Happy Easter, and God’s blessings upon you and your family!
