Easter Ears

“But go, tell His disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see Him, just as He told you.”- Mark 16:7

It doesn’t take long to realize that much of the Easter press and hubbub is going to the wrong star. Based on the number of community events and social media posts, it’s clear that for many the central figure is the Easter Bunny. That’s right, the one with long ears, buckteeth, and delighting kids with egg hunts and goodies. Don’t get me wrong, bunnies are cute, but it is Christ who caused Easter to be a message we all need and a miracle everyone can receive. In 1 Corinthians 15:20 Paul tells us, “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.”

As believers we recognize that it was by Jesus rising from the grave death was defeated forever. But that truth seems to escape us as quickly as Easter weekend comes and goes. The victory has already been accomplished in Him, but the joy is far from being attained in us. Again, this is not based on Christ’s work being available and powerful today. In Ephesians 1:19-20 we read, “And His incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength He exerted when He raised Christ from the dead…”

The issue isn’t whether Easter is in effect today, of course it is! The real need is to remember and not neglect it. When we listen to Jesus, we will find life! Romans 10:17 says, “Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” Like the bunny’s big ears, I want us to use our HEARING to be strengthened by what was SPOKEN to Jesus’ followers on that first Easter.

1) HE IS ALIVE- This is the crux of our celebration. He is alive forevermore and we get to live with Him! Matthew 28:6, “The angel said, ‘He is not here; He has risen, just as He said.”

2) BE AT PEACE- No fear is bigger and no foe is stronger than the One whose presence is with you and who speaks peace over you. John 20:19, “On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you!”

3) TELL THE STORY- Easter offers something powerful that nothing else can provide. People are hurting and hopeless, and we can bring a message of hope and new life. Be sure to INVITE and BRING people to our Easter Saturday service. Luke 24:49 Jesus said, “I am going to send you what My father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”

This Easter let’s believe for newness, changed lives, and resurrection power!