When we think of Easter, it’s easy to picture one glorious Sunday—the flower cross, joyful music ringing through the sanctuary, and a delicious meal with family and friends after service. But here is some excellent news: Easter isn’t just a single day. It’s a season and also a way of life.
The Season of Easter lasts for seven weeks, beginning Easter Sunday and continuing to Pentecost. This extended celebration reminds us that resurrection isn't meant to be a one-day event tucked into our calendar. Resurrection and the hope it brings is also a way of life. We are called to live as Easter people, shaped daily by the hope, joy, and victory of Christ's resurrection.
What does it mean to live as Easter people? I'll offer three action steps we can take this week to live as Easter people.
Walk in Newness of Life
Romans 6:4 tells us, “Just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life.” The resurrection of Jesus wasn't just a moment in history. It opened the door for us to live differently today. Easter people walk in the newness of life, choosing love over fear, hope over despair, and grace over guilt. Yes, as Easter people, we are called to reflect the Good News of the empty tomb into everyday life. We are called to walk in newness of life, offering acts of love, deeds of kindness, and words of care and compassion to those who need it most.
Trust That Death Doesn’t Have the Final Word
In a world filled with heartache and endings, Easter proclaims the astonishing truth: love wins, and death has been swallowed up in victory. The Season of Easter gives us time to soak in that truth, not just to believe it in our heads but to carry it in our hearts, especially when we face hardships, pain, and struggles. It’s like the old song says, “Because he lives, I can face tomorrow. Because he lives, all fear is gone. Because I know he holds the future, and life is worth the living just because he lives."
Let God Use Us as He Makes All Things New
Revelation 21:5 says, “See, I am making all things new.” Easter people allow God to use them as he restores and renews all things. Whether it's planting a garden to help feed hungry neighbors, forgiving a hurt, welcoming a stranger, helping out a friend in need, or praying for peace, the Risen Christ uses us to help mend what is broken. As we continue to live with resurrection joy, may we offer him our gifts, talents, and skills and join him in the work he is already doing, continually making all things new.
Prayer for the Easter Season
Risen Christ,
Remind us that Easter is not just a day, not just a season, but a way of life. Help us to live as Easter people, filled with the joy of resurrection. Help us live as Easter people, renewed, restored, and full of your life-giving Spirit. Let every sunrise remind us that you are still making all things new. Use us, Lord, to share the Good News of Easter. May every act of humble service reflect your great love.
In Christ's Name, We Pray, Amen.
Jesus loves you, Union Family, and I do too!