“I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see him with my own eyes; I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!” Job 19:25-27

The music from Easter is still in my senses. Easter music is filled with so much Hope and our sinful world needs a huge portion of Hope. Easter is a transfusion of sorts as it brings us a reminder that there is life beyond this one. True life. Eternal life. Glorious life. Those who live on what we might call ‘the outskirts of hope’ need a transfusion. You know who they are. Easter brings Hope.

I think of all those who are battling a dread disease, those who still grieve over the loss of a spouse, a child, a parent, or a friend. Those caught up in the lies of vodou. Those facing challenges of gang violence encroaching on their neighborhood. Those trying to make ends meet.

Easter Hope. There were some who thought that Hope died on Good Friday. There is nothing like Easter to bring Hope back to life. Easter has its own anthems. Easter has its own scriptures. And Easter has its own memorable proclamation: "He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said". Hope lives.

When Christians gather in houses of worship and lift their voices in praise to the risen Redeemer, the demonic hosts of hell and their damnable prince of darkness are temporarily paralyzed.

Our identity as Christians is strengthened as we stand in the lineage of the saints down through the centuries of time, who have always answered back in one strong voice: "He is risen, indeed!" Hope is here. Hope has defeated the evil foe. We are reminded every year on Easter Sunday. Alleluia!

Dear Heavenly Father, you have called your servants to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths as yet untrodden, through perils unknown. Give us faith to go out with good courage, not knowing where we go but only that your hand is leading us and your love supporting us through Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. Amen.

May God be with you,

Jay