Jesus is not a zombie

Many people who do not believe in the resurrection dismiss Jesus as some kind of zombie. The word "zombie" originates from West Africa and was carried to the Caribbean through the transatlantic slave trade. In folklore, zombies are thought to be corpses reanimated by curses, viruses, or dark magic. Stripped of their humanity, they lack consciousness, will, or moral compass, spreading death and destruction through their violent aggression.

- FR. ROLANDO Y. DELA ROSA, O.P.

In stark contrast, the resurrected Jesus, as portrayed in today's Gospel reading (John 20:19-31), is not a grotesque, decaying, flesh-eating corpse, but a glorified and transformed Being. He appears to His disciples, converses with them, teaches them, and even shares meals with them. He is visible and physically present, making His deep compassion, mercy, and forgiveness available to everyone. While zombies rise from the grave to bring fear and horror, the risen Christ brings new life, vibrant hope, and contagious joy.

Jesus's resurrection affirms our belief in eternal life and God's power to redeem and renew. Where zombies symbolize the corruption and distortion of life, Jesus embodies its full restoration. Though both involve a return from death, Jesus's resurrection represents a radical transformation into what God destines us to be. Zombies are the undead; Jesus is fully alive.