Greetings Sisters and Brothers,
Many of us have fond memories of the excitement and joy of Easter we experienced growing up. New clothes and shoes, Easter baskets, Easter egg hunts, participating in the Easter program, singing Easter songs, a special Easter dinner, and the weather was usually warm and sunny. There are those who experience sadness and disappointment during this season because their families lack the financial resources to acquire new shoes and clothes, Easter baskets or even Easter candy.
The true joy and excitement of Easter is expressed in three words: “He has risen.” This is the message Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome received when they entered the tomb where Jesus had been buried. The encounter left them overcome by fear and they told no one of the risen Christ.
In Romans 5:8, Paul alludes to God’s love “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” The resurrection of Jesus confirms our salvation and substantiates our eternal hope. May the source of the joy you have this and every Resurrection Sunday be the same as articulated by the hymnist: “You ask me how I know he lives, he lives within my heart.”
Eugene James, Jr.
Regional Minister
