Second Presbyterian Church

From the Pastor's Study
April 2004

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» From the Pastor's Study Homepage

I have always loved the season of spring. The flowers begin to bloom. The birds start singing louder and reappearing after their winter migration. The leaves come out on the trees. That which has laid dormant all winter long comes back to life. That which has looked dead springs to life.

I love the season of spring, because it is the time of year that we celebrate Easter. And Easter is so important to the life of the Church! It is the time we celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth. He was crucified; he died; and God raised Jesus from death. He is the Messiah of Israel; he is our Messiah. Jesus is the one who atoned for our sin; he is the one who redeemed us from sin. Jesus is the one who made it possible for us to be in communion with our Creator, God the Father. Jesus is the one who calls us, in forgiveness, to be in communion with one another.

Actually spring should not be the only time we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. We are called to daily live our lives with the hope and belief that Jesus is alive. That is why, for me, Easter is so important. Our Lord, who died, rose again; he is alive forever! He has given us the promise that evil, death, illness, destruction do not have the final answer. Eternal life is the final answer.

So, enjoy the Easter bunny, Easter eggs, and all the other rites of spring that we love. Just remember that they are just that: the rites of spring! Jesus Christ, resurrected is the real meaning of Easter. Praise the Lord!

Grace and Peace,
The Rev. Daniel E. Hale, D. Min.
Designated Pastor