Easter Message Endures

Once again, as the glorious Easter season unfolds its beauty and splendor, let us rejoice…and let us pause to reaffirm in heart and mind, that message of renewal and rebirth which the day commemorates.  Let it also be, for each of us, a time of reflection and resolve, that we may cherish the joyful spirit of Easter keeping it alive and radiant throughout the year.

“In the end of the Sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchure.

“And behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone from the door and sat upon it.

“His countenance was like lightning and his raiment white as snow:

“And for fear of him, the keepers did shake and became as dead men.

“And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.

“He is not here, for He is risen, as He said.”

With the dawning millions today began uniting in observance of the holiest of Christian holidays.  At outdoor services, in small chapels and at great cathedrals, they father to hear again the Easter message contained in the triumphal story of the risen Christ.

The story of the resurrection is one of joy and hope.  It tells of victory over death.  It promises eternal spiritual life to those who believe.

Condemned and disputed from the beginning, the Easter message endures.  One reason it endures is that its appeal is and always has been personal and immediate.  The story of Jesus as recorded in the New Testament is a story of immense love enfolding all – meaning each listener to the message.  Crucifixion and resurrection are chapters reminding of Jesus’ willing sacrifice to atone for the sins of all and of a universal promise of immortality of spirit.

Those who receive and accept the Easter message derive power and strength to overcome earthly adversities that beset and sorrow that befall.  The message is utilitarian.  It is more.  The forgiveness and eternal life it pledges are central to the Christian faith.  That faith is an indescribable comfort to believers now, as it has been through the ages.

Part of the home and promise of Easter is the sense of sharing, the feeling on oneness with our fellow man.  That is why we are, at this time, particularly please to have the privilege of exchanging greeting with our good friends and neighbors.

As you gather with your families, as you worship in the church of your choice, as you celebrate this wondrous Easter-tide, our thoughts are with you.  And so, in keeping with the season, we sincerely hope to extend to each and every one of you our best regards and happy Easter wishes.