I have always loved Easter weekends as it is usually the first family gathering of the year for the traditional egg hunt, games, food, and all the festivities. Of course, this year is very different for all of us. Because of COVID 19, we will have an empty driveway, empty bedrooms, empty tables, and an empty yard.
These uncertain times have caused me to reflect on the first Easter over 2000 years ago when Jesus was crucified, and on the third day when three women went to the tomb expecting to get his body, found it empty! Think about how they felt. Maybe nervous, frightened, and wondering what the future might hold? And what about those disciples who were locked in their house scared and uncertain about what would happen next? I know that in that situation, “empty” is good.
In John 11, the story of Lazarus, Jesus told Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do You Believe this?”
I’ve been encouraged lately from reading I Peter 1:3. In God’s great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade – kept in heaven for you. I recognize it’s not just a hope of heaven but hope on earth as we activate our faith and trust in Him. He will never change! His mercies and unfailing love are constant. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He’s not dead but is actively alive in us who believe.
Yes, “empty” is good. I would ask you to join us this weekend and on Easter Sunday as we reflect on the empty tomb and the hope that can be found in Jesus.
Please pray for those who have lost loved ones as well as our leaders and first responders in the continued fight of this virus. We will overcome!
Easter blessings to you and your family.
Rev. Sharon Dodds