by Kristin Huffman, Associate Director
Christ is risen! He is risen indeed!
Ringing out Easter morning across gatherings of Jesus followers throughout the world, this ancient tradition (called the Paschal Greeting or Easter Acclamation) offers testimony to the truth that Jesus lives. It reminds us of the angel’s startling words to the women who came to anoint Jesus’ body and found the tomb empty, declaring that Jesus had been raised from the dead. As Christians repeat this joyous refrain, we celebrate that Jesus is alive today! We’re grateful beyond measure to know and be known by Jesus, following and serving Him as He brings light to dark corners of the world.
Because tragically, in many places on earth there are still people who haven’t heard the Good News of God’s love for them and His offer of hope and wholeness for all people. This amazing news that we shout so gloriously is unknown and inaccessible to many people. We say it habitually every Easter, even at times taking it for granted. We sometimes forget what it truly means that Jesus is alive and working in and through us. We don’t think about those who haven’t heard this news. God’s Kingdom plan is to bring all nations to know, glorify and enjoy Him forever.
What a joy and privilege it is to belong to God and be His hands and feet as we share this message. Yet at times the mere thought of reaching out to those who don’t know Him fills us with doubts and fears and leaves us feeling paralyzed. How could I possibly believe that God would use me? How do I share my faith or even meet people of different faiths? We can get complacent in our own contexts of faith and comfort and not embrace the adventure God has offered us.
Maybe today is the day to not only celebrate Jesus’ resurrection, but to also begin to pray for the world. That the light of Christ would go into all corners of it, especially where people haven’t yet heard His Good News. Watch and read the news today—choose one nation or city and pray, asking God to fill you with His love and care for that place and its people.
God is on the move. There are miracles of light and hope breaking forth in once dark places. May we all proclaim from wherever He has placed each of us: Christ is risen! He is risen indeed!
Comments are closed.