Easter People


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We are called to be Easter people, Resurrection people. What does that mean? It means to live with joy, with confidence, and with faith.

We can imagine the joy of Mary Magdalen and Jesus' disciples when they discovered that Jesus had risen from the dead. When all their hopes were dashed at the crucifixion, suddenly they realize that he truly was the Messiah, the Savior, the one who had destroyed death. His promise that those who believe in him would have eternal life was real.

The Resurrection ought to fill us with confidence that we have nothing to fear, that no matter how bad things look. Jesus will be with us and give us courage to persevere. Hope should make us lift our hearts and our heads to face whatever the future holds.

Death is not the last word. We have the promise of everlasting life. "Eye has not seen nor ear heard what God has ready for those who love him." All we have to do is love God and the people God sends into our lives. That means the irritable neighbor, the bitter enemy, the miserable miser, the belligerant teenager, the shabby beggar, the detestable tyrant. Jesus died for all of us and he wants everyone to live with him forever.

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