Hope in the midst of darkness: the message of Easter
Have you ever wondered what it was like for the disciples of Jesus Christ on that first Easter?
- to watch while Judas, one of their own, betrayed Jesus and handed him over to a band of men with weapons (John 18:3)
- to stand by (except for Peter, who swung his sword and cut off one of the servant’s ears) while men bound and led away their master, hero, and leader (John 18:10-13)
- for Peter to remember that Jesus had predicted all the disciples would flee and then hear the cock crow after he had denied one of his best friends, three times (John 18:16-27)
- to listen while false charges were brought against Jesus, to hear Pilate say, “I find in him no fault at all,” and yet watch as Pilate delivered him over to be crucified (John 18:28-19:16
- to watch Jesus go through the horrific death by crucifixion, knowing he was innocent (John 19:17-37)
- to wonder what happened to their Messiah, the King of Kings. Why He was dead, and buried in a tomb, while they still lived under the oppression they thought He had come to save them from?
We know that the story did not end there. We know that Jesus rose from the dead on the third day, and showed himself to the disciples and over 500 other people.
“The resurrection of Jesus changes the face of death for all His people. Death is no longer a prison, but a passage into God’s presence. Easter says you can put truth in a grave, but it won’t stay there.” (Clarence W. Hall)
We all experience difficulties in our lives. No one is exempt. Some difficulties don’t last long; others drag on for weeks, months, and years. Where do we find hope to keep going in the midst of those dark times?
“The foundation of all human excellence must be laid deep in … the Redeemer’s cross and in the power of his resurrection. F. W. Robertson”
I find my hope in Jesus Christ and his resurrection from the dead. What about you? Share what you celebrate during this season.
