On this day, 17 Bashans 1742, we are reminded of the joy that fills the hearts of believers in the Coptic Orthodox tradition. As St. Paul writes in Romans 6:4, 'we were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.' This newness of life is characterized by joy, a joy that is not fleeting or superficial, but deep and abiding.
The Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ is the source of this joy, and it is through living the Resurrection that we experience true happiness. As Fr. Tadros Malaty explains, the Resurrection is not just a historical event, but a living reality that transforms our lives. It is the power of the Resurrection that enables us to overcome sin and death, and to live a life of joy and hope.
In the Coptic Orthodox tradition, joy is not just a feeling, but a choice. It is a decision to trust in God's goodness and providence, even in the midst of difficulties and challenges. As Pope Shenouda III writes, 'joy is not the absence of problems, but the presence of God in our lives.' This presence of God is what gives us joy, and it is what enables us to live a life of joy, even in the face of adversity.
The lives of the saints and martyrs of the Coptic Orthodox Church are a testament to this joy. Despite facing persecution and hardship, they remained steadfast in their faith, and their joy was not diminished. Instead, it was increased, as they experienced the power of the Resurrection in their lives. As St. Augustine writes, 'the joy of the martyrs is not a joy of this world, but a joy that comes from above, a joy that is given by God.'
As we live the Resurrection, we are called to experience this joy. We are called to trust in God's goodness, to trust in His providence, and to trust in His love. We are called to live a life of joy, hope, and redemption, a life that is characterized by the power of the Resurrection. As the prayer of St. Basil the Great says, 'O God, who hast given us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ, grant us to rejoice in Thee, and to be joyful in Thy presence, now and forevermore.'
O Lord, grant us the joy of the Resurrection, and fill our hearts with Thy love and Thy presence, now and forevermore.