Happy Easter! This Easter Sunday is probably pretty different from our expectations of getting dressed up, going to church, sharing a meal with family and friends, and enjoying the spring air. This Easter, we are all home, taking shelter from a virus that has swept the globe, and there’s no telling when it will be over. But the story of Easter, of Jesus Christ’s resurrection and victory over death, reminds us that in the midst of the uncertainty, we know how it will end. We know that Jesus wins!

The old hymn, “Because He Lives”, says:

“Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.

Because He lives, all fear is gone.

Because I know He holds My future

And life is worth the living just because He lives.” 

Even if we can’t take part in all of the traditions that we associate with Easter, let us seize the opportunity to get back to the true meaning of Easter. The death and resurrection of Jesus means that we can face every day without any fear because we know He is in control. Although our lives have taken on a new look, it is still worth living and celebrating, simply because of the fact that our Savior lives. Each day comes with new developments that we might not know of or be prepared for, but God knows them because He holds the future. Jesus lives, which means we get to live in communion with Him.

Why do we describe Good Friday as “good”?

Because looking back on that day, we are able to recognize that Christ’s sacrifice, although painful, led to our ability to have a direct connection with God. If such a day can be celebrated, this Easter should be all the more celebrated despite the unexpected circumstances. Let’s all resolve that even if this is not a typical Easter, we’re going to make it a good one!

Many churches are live-streaming Easter services on Zoom, Facebook Live, or other online platforms, so it is easier than ever to join in worship, Bible study, and fellowship with the body of Christ. I would encourage you to still dress up in your Sunday best, take photos, sit down together for a meal, and have some family fun. Call loved ones and share in the festivities. Celebrations are what you make of them, and Easter is far more than the Easter Bunny or an egg hunt, so this might even be a chance to start a new family tradition or two!

Once again, Happy Easter to you all! I pray that this Easter would be a time of reflection and commemoration of Jesus’ resurrection, and a celebration of the new life that we are all given in Him.