Easter is coming! Flowers are blooming, butterflies, birds and blossoms abound and, at least where I live, real life feels like it is returning to our communities. As winter has turned to spring, the darkness of the last many months seems to be brightening and hope seems to be on the horizon.
There is something uniquely special about Easter Sunday and it has nothing to do with dying eggs, baskets or chocolate bunnies. The most profound truth about Easter is the sequence of events leading up to the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. He came to us, loved on us, taught us, then died for us. This singular, incredible real-life event of history offers real HOPE to our world. And the price for this astonishing free GIFT is simply to believe and receive it, to trust and obey Him.
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9 NKJV
I know many who have felt so wounded and lost this past year. So much was taken from all of us. I pray that if you have struggled at all, that you would look at Easter with fresh eyes. What can you turn from despair to hope, from lost to found, from dark to light? Reach your hand to Jesus who gave His life to buy us back into His family. Even if you don’t completely understand the cost of His gift, He will honor your faith and redeem that which has been lost.
This week we remember His suffering on our behalf as the days lead up to Easter Sunday. I recommend watching “The Resurrection” which is showing on Discovery and shares the impact this had not only on His disciples and mother Mary, but on the Romans, High Priest and other Jewish leaders. And in addition, I highly recommend the wonderful ongoing mini-series called, “The Chosen” which airs the first episode of season two on Easter Sunday 8pm ET. You can watch the entirely of season one free on YouTube or on The Chosen app.
“Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6
Jesus loves you, this I know.
Prayers and Paintbrushes 