By Rev Eric Mbusa
Easter is one of the most significant events in human history—the resurrection of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. It is not merely a date on the calendar but the very foundation of our faith. Today, we will explore the meaning of Easter, its significance, its essence, how we can celebrate it, and the profound lessons it teaches us.
What is Easter?
Easter commemorates the resurrection of Jesus, a moment that transformed history forever. In Matthew 28:5-6, we read:
“The angel said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said.'”
This proclamation is at the heart of Easter. Jesus endured the suffering of the cross and the grave, but He rose again, giving us hope and the promise of eternal life.
Why does Easter matter?
Easter signifies the triumph of life over death, hope over despair, and love over hatred. The Apostle Paul captures this beautifully in 1 Corinthians 15:55-57:
“Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting? The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Easter reminds us that we are not defined by our sins but by the grace given to us through faith in Christ. It is a celebration of God’s ultimate victory.
The essence of Easter
At its core, Easter embodies renewal, hope, and redemption. It is the ultimate demonstration of God’s love for humanity, as expressed in John 3:16:
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Easter calls us to transformation. Just as Jesus was raised from the dead, we are invited to embrace a new life in Him. Romans 6:4 affirms this:
“We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”
How can we celebrate Easter?
As we reflect on the significance of Easter, we should consider how to honour God in our celebrations:
- Worship together: Attend church services and rejoice in the resurrection. Hebrews 10:25 encourages us not to neglect meeting together but to support and uplift one another: “not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching”
- Prayer and reflection: Dedicate time for personal prayer and meditation on the resurrection. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us to bring our requests before God with thanksgiving.
- Holy communion: Participate in the Lord’s Supper, remembering Christ’s sacrifice. Luke 22:19 states: “Do this in remembrance of me.”
- Family gatherings: Share meals and joy with loved ones. Acts 2:46 describes the early believers gathering together with gladness and sincerity of heart.
- Acts of kindness: Engage in charitable acts, reflecting Christ’s love. Matthew 25:40 reminds us: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
Lessons from Easter
Easter teaches us invaluable lessons that can shape our daily lives:
- Hope in difficult times: Just as Jesus overcame death, we are reminded that hope emerges from despair. Romans 15:13 encourages us to be filled with joy and peace as we trust in Him: “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
- The power of forgiveness: Jesus forgave even those who crucified Him. We are called to extend the same grace to others, as stated in Colossians 3:13.
- Faith in action: The resurrection is not just a historical event; it is a call to live out our faith daily. James 2:17 tells us that faith without action is dead.
- Transformation: Just as Jesus turned death into life, we are encouraged to seek renewal and transformation. 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
As we celebrate Easter, may our hearts be filled with gratitude and joy. Let us remember the power of the resurrection, embrace the hope it brings, and live out the lessons it imparts. May we carry the message of Easter into our everyday lives, sharing the love and grace of our risen Saviour with the world around us. Amen.
