Easter - He is Risen!

The journey of Lent is an opportunity to walk by the side of Jesus, as He walked toward His darkest hour.  If we truly immerse ourselves into this walk, in study and prayer, it is interesting that our lives come to mirror His walk.  Old habits, needless ways of thinking, buried lies about ourselves, disappointments in relationships, all creep into our minds and hearts. Alone.... joining our precious Savior as he prayed alone in the garden among sleeping friends.  Good Friday, the day of crucifixion, and Quiet Saturday give no hint of what is to come.  Then the brilliance of Easter Sunday....the empty tomb discovered, disbelief, confusion, doubt....leading to the truth that Christ has Risen.  He has risen indeed, transforming lives and casting out fear.  The disciples witnessed Him, resurrected, and became ambassadors of the Good News.  Thomas doubted.....and Christ met even him, in his doubt and fear, with tenderness and Grace.  Wherever we are this week, Jesus knows, and wants to shine His Light in us, making all things new.  Nothing can hinder His work in us, His saving Grace.  Sins, wounds, tragedies, shattered dreams, all healed, made new in Christ, declared so by our Gracious God!  Hope Promise Light.  We have a friend in a Savior who suffered, and has Risen, allowing us to transform our suffering into Life.  His mercies are new every day! Praise be to our Glorious Father and our precious Risen Christ!