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The Easter season reminds us that we've been created for an ever-deepening joy which will extend beyond this life and this world, for all eternity. The apostles are described as being "incredulous for joy" and "amazed" at the sight of the risen Christ when he appeared to them at table. Our Saviour came through suffering and death to show them and us the unfathomable depths of God's mercy and the path to eternal life.
We catch glimmers and echoes of that place of eternal beauty in scenic vistas and in the melodies of inspiring music, but our hearts are especially prepared to inhabit the everlasting hills of our eternal home through acts of sacrificial love and mercy in the present moment. Even now we can enter into the place where Heaven meets earth by simply being present at and prayerfully participating in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.
Today, in the midst of the joy of Eastertide, we're also blessed to be celebrating the 106th anniversary of the birth of Father John Francis Harvey, Oblate of St. Francis de Sales. Scripture tells us that eye has not seen nor has ear heard what God has prepared for those who love Him, but we may not be far off the mark in imagining our beloved Father Harvey today in the most glorious of surroundings, with a big smile on his face, singing his favourite tunes, and perhaps enjoying 'a wee drop 'o the creature' with his nearest and dearest!
Father Harvey's holy life of charity, courage, and compassion was evidence of his complete dedication to our Saviour and we trust that his soul is now in a place of everlasting joy in God's presence. May we be graced with many more Easter blessings through Father's continued intercession for us especially on his birthday, and may the apostolate he founded 44 years ago continue to thrive and grow!
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