The truth of the Easter gift

     

     We have heard it said that we are not truly equipped to live until we are equipped to die. 

     We are all very aware that life is short at best. 

     We may not be here tomorrow.

     This thought was enlarged upon at the Easter service I attended this past weekend. 

     James, in the Bible, explains it this way: “You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” (James 4:14). 

     It is a subject many don’t wish to talk about, so they shove it to the recesses of their minds.

     I am so glad we celebrate the Easter season each year, as the beautiful truth of Jesus’ death and resurrection reminds us that we do not have to fear death. 

     A reminder of the brevity of life was played out in our family just this past week, as my eastern relative, lovely Anne-Marie’s funeral took place on Easter Sunday. 

     Jesus firmly states, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in Me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.” 

     

Mike and Anne-Marie Eagles

     I’ve been told how Anne-Marie quietly, and with confidence, during the long weeks prior to her passing, had no fear of death, trusting in her risen Lord who made it all possible that first Easter. 

     It is true, Jesus’ crucifixion is the most important moment in all of history. 

     It sufficiently covered the penalty for our sins. Then His resurrection reassured us of His love and freedom we can have over sin and, imputing eternal life to us, by our faith in Him. What a victory, all on our behalf! 

     Once considered, who wouldn’t want such a gift? 

     How we ought to be sharing this “good news” with others. And perhaps with the reminder that Christianity is ‘not’ just another religion, but is Truth. 

     Jesus is the only religious teacher who has physically died and returned to life, giving complete victory over death. He deserves our all.  

     This week, celebrations were held remembering the powerful civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.. 

     It has been 50 years since his assassination. Giving a powerful speech just hours before his death, his untimely words of truth, conviction and faith, are still echoing today. 

     “Never give up, never hate, for hate is too heavy a burden to bear.” 

     A God-fearing man, his message to strive for a better tomorrow, to reach the mountaintop and on to the promised land is much needed in today’s charged climate with on-going racial injustice. 

     We no doubt ask, “What has really changed?"

     But King’s words still resonate with most of us — “I have a dream for a better world.” But we know, as did he, that only love can bring about that dream.May love prevail!       

     “On the third He rose again.”  

Mountain of Spices

Long night of sorrow and earth’s pain  

Gone like a dream! 

Death vanquished now; 

The Victor’s crown is on Love’s brow. 

The body sin could not destroy. 

Now healed and raised to life and joy. 

By Adam came all sin and pain, 

In Christ shall all men live again. 

Behold our God and Saviour thus! 

See what his Love will do for us.”      

— Hannah Hurnard

— beulah