Easter. The holiday rightly takes center stage when it comes to celebrations of the Christian church. If one has eyes to see, it is a day so rich in meaning and symbolism. And, if anything, so much of the story of the resurrection of Jesus is a push and nudge for the followers of Jesus to move into the future, with its new life and new possibilities.
Part of that move into the future includes the eventual journey from death into life. I become more keenly aware of that notion with every passing year. Every year brings more farewells at graveside and I know that the biggest and hardest of them still lie on ahead. Of course, all of the farewells make me realize that I, too, someday, will have to take my leave of those in this life. We all move to that destination.
Yet, Easter reminds us that we do not move on alone. The Risen Christ, our divine companion, leads on. That knowledge gives us peace and assurance as we make our way—perhaps even anticipation. It is not an uncommon thing in ministry to see people in the last state of life’s journey anticipating what the next step will be like. Persons of strong faith don’t fear that step, but approach it with peace.
Jesus is there in our present and in our future and will never leave us. That, friends, is the good news of Easter.
The Great Fifty Days will give us many opportunities to celebrate the good news. Among our celebrations will be the opportunity to hear the music of the combined choirs of Salem and St. Peter’s UCC, Kiel on Sunday, April 15th. The music of the combined choirs is always excellent—and I’d say that even if I weren’t in the Chancel Choir—so don’t miss the opportunity to be present that day.
May your journey during the Easter season be filled with joy and wonder.
Your servant in Christ,
Rev. Jim Hoppert
