As we come together on this Easter Day, many of us are filled with joy, hope and expectation. Some of us are here because it’s part of our tradition and culture, while a deeper understanding of the significance of this day in the Christian faith draws others. Easter is not just a commemoration of a pivotal event in Christianity but a reminder of our hope for possibility, renewal and reintegration.
Easter reminds us of the transformative power of love and the possibility of renewal and rebirth. Jesus’ emergence from the tomb reminds us that we, too, might emerge from the darkness of doubt and fear — that we might be encouraged to hold on to strength through pain and struggle. Maybe even more important, we can be agents through which this happens in the lives of others. The gospel story centers around the truth that we can be saving and salving beings in a world wrecked with turmoil, uncertainty and despair.
Following the path of Christ compels us to be advocates for change and justice, particularly in the lives of those who need it most. Resurrection and redemption are not just gifts or graces, but a right for all people. Our calling is to help others find resurrection and renewal in their lives. May Easter stir us to recommit to being active agents of change, standing up for the marginalized, the oppressed and the forgotten. May our voices of compassion be instruments of deep and meaningful healing in a world that yearns for justice and peace.
What tangible good will you do with your “New Day?” How will you exercise a new kind of empathy, kindness, generosity and reconciliation in your life? How will you release the light of the Divine in a world that often feels lost in darkness?
May the songs, prayers and holy texts inspire new life within us as we sing, pray and listen today. May our worship reflect our gratitude for God’s redeeming love and our commitment to the love we’ll show others. May worship reverberate deep within, inspiring us to live out our faith with vitality and compassion.
May Easter be more than just a day; may it begin a journey of transformation and renewal for you and those you may reach. Embrace this journey with open hearts and minds, trusting Easter’s promise of new life.