St. Peter’s bascilica has at its entrance holy water fonts. Holding it up are two cherub angels. One of them is older looking and more aged, the other is younger and new.
The resurrection overcomes the effects of sins. It dwells in the sacraments, particularly baptism. This is the marvelous example we hear and read about in the 2nd reading, it is from the book of revelation and speaks of a new heaven and a new earth. The old has passed away. After the resurrection, the old and its effects have passed away. The resurrection of Jesus not only affects the present but the entire community of believers.
God’s covenant with man is sealed and perpetuated in the church. We are not just part of a gathering but a new creation made through the resurrection.
It is called a bride, there is a relationship of love. Too many Catholics do not and have not have a personal relationship with Jesus. We are invited to relationship of love.
The new commandment is not new in its mention but in its effects and in its degree. We must love in the new way of Jesus and this reality will renew us as the old way is shed off.
It is necessary for us to undergo many hardship to enter the kingdom of God. The love we share and the risks we take as catholics, it calls us out.