Easter Reflection

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life.[a] Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?”

John 11:25-26

Easter is my favorite holiday of the year. It coincides with spring which brings about fresh grass, flowers, and hints of warm summer days that many of us go without during the winter months. And of course, it commemorates Christ’s resurrection from the grave, which sets the Christian faith apart from all other religions of the world.

But despite all the hoopla on this day, if we merely view Easter Sunday as just another Christian holiday, we’re missing a much more significant point about who Christ is.

In John 11, we read about Lazarus, a very dear friend to Jesus. One day, Lazarus became very ill, so his sisters sent a message to Jesus asking for his help.

Upon hearing the news and in his divine wisdom, Jesus said, “Lazarus’s sickness will not end in death. No, it happened for the glory of God so that the Son of God will receive glory from this.” In a decision that confused many, Jesus chose to stay where he was for two more days. During this time, Lazarus died.

Four days later, Jesus and his disciples finally visited Lazarus. When hearing of his arrival, family members of Lazarus went out to meet Jesus and said, “Lord, if only you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask.”

I’m sure you know the rest of the story. Jesus tells them, “Your brother will rise again. I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live.”

Did you catch it? Jesus brought about the resurrection and was the cause of the resurrection, but more importantly, he is the resurrection.

Life after death and eternal life with God are so closely tied to Jesus, that they embody his very character. And these things can only be found in a relationship with Him.

So before Resurrection Sunday becomes a distant memory, reflect on this fact: Easter is not an event, it is a person, and that person is our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Today’s author is Mark Henderson. He is the founder and host of The Inspired Legacy Podcast.