Easter Every Day

Bible Reading: Philippians 3:10-11; 1 Peter 1:3-9

“Who’s that guy on TV?” Ashton asked as he joined his dad in the living room.

“That’s the father of the boy who went missing last year,” Dad said.

“Oh yeah, I remember that. He went missing on a camping trip, and they never found him.” Ashton sighed. “It’s so sad.”

“Yes, it is,” Dad said. “I can’t imagine what his family must be going through. It was a story we heard on the news and quickly forgot about, but for them, it’s been their everyday reality for the past year.”

On Sunday, Ashton was quiet on the way home from the Easter church service. “You look like you’re thinking about something pretty hard,” Dad said.

Ashton shrugged. “I was just thinking about what Pastor Edwards said this morning—that Christians celebrate Easter every day, not just once a year. What did he mean by that?”

“Well, think of it this way,” said Dad. “If we heard on the news tonight that the boy who went missing last year had been found and was okay, how would we feel?”

“I’d be happy to hear that!” said Ashton.

“Me too,” said Dad. “But would it change our lives?”

“Well, no,” said Ashton. “We didn’t know him, so even though we’d be happy for him and his family, we’d probably forget about it eventually.”

“Right,” said Dad. “We didn’t have a relationship with him, so it wouldn’t change our day-to-day lives very much. But if his family got the news that he was alive and safe, their lives would change a lot, wouldn’t they?”

“Yeah,” Ashton said. “Because they know him and love him.”

Dad nodded. “That’s how it is with us and Easter. For many people, it’s just a yearly holiday that quickly passes by, but for those who know Jesus, it’s our everyday reality. Because we have a relationship with Him, His resurrection gives us new life and affects every part of our lives. When we sin, we know He’ll forgive us. When we’re hurting, we know He’s with us. When we experience sadness or loss, we can find strength and joy in His promise that one day He’ll make everything right and that we’ll live with Him forever.

Ashton smiled. “I’m thankful we have Easter every day!” – Courtney Lasater

How About You?

Did you know that Easter is an everyday reality for those who trust in Jesus? It’s more than just a holiday that comes once a year. Jesus died and rose again so we could have a relationship with Him that lasts forever. He saved us from sin and will always be with us, no matter what we go through. If you trust in Him, you can celebrate Easter every day! (To learn more, click the blue “Good News” button in the column to the right.)

Today’s Key Verse:
Romans 6:4 Just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. (NIV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Easter is an everyday reality