Crying On Easter

John 20:15 – “…(Jesus) said, ‘Why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?’” 

It was the first Easter morning.  Jesus was alive!  He had risen from the dead!  Yet, Mary was in the garden crying.  She was still in a place of sorrow and grief.  Why?  Because the resurrection of Jesus had not yet become a reality to her.  She had not yet experienced the risen Christ for herself.  The One for whom she was looking was alive, but she didn’t know it.  So, Mary continued to cry.  Mary was crying on Easter. 

Then Jesus came along.  And, when he showed up, when the risen Christ appeared, everything changed for Mary. Hopelessness was suddenly gone. The sense of loss disappeared. The grief was overcome. Excitement and joy—mixed of course with mystery and wonder—filled Mary’s to overflowing.  The resurrection power of Jesus Christ changed everything!  Jesus’ new life brought new life to Mary—and to all who would come to know him in his resurrection power. 

We who are Christians know that Jesus is alive.  Yet, so often we find ourselves crying in “the garden”—crying on Easter. Why? Yes, life can deal us some pretty hard blows.  It’s true that our lives can be filled with all kinds of pain.  Yet, we need to ask ourselves, could it be that, although we say we believe Christ is risen, we have failed to let his resurrection, become a reality in our lives?  Could it be that, the Risen Christ stands before us, offering to us his life, yet we have failed to open our eyes to him and respond?  

Jesus asked Mary, “Who are you looking for?”  I’m reminded on this Easter weekend that, the answer to all my grief and pain is found in a “Who” not in a “what.”  When it comes to dealing with the troubles and sorrows of life, my hope is not found in more stuff, in more money, in a better education, etc.  My hope is found in the person of the Risen Christ!  Real life is found in the One who stands before me filled with resurrection power!

As we celebrate Easter, may the Risen Christ become a reality in each of our lives.  May his joy, hope, peace, and resurrection life fill you to overflowing.

Christ is risen!  He’s risen indeed! 

Have a wonderful Easter! 

Pastor Tim Harris