The Easter Greeting!

I love the way Christians all over the world from so many different church traditions greet each other on Easter Sunday. Rather than saying a simple, “Happy Easter,” one will say to another, “Christ is risen!” The other will then respond, “He’s risen indeed!” It’s a greeting that gets to the heart of what this holiday (holy day) is really all about. In a very natural way, it takes the emphasis off the flowers, warming weather, bunnies, and chocolate (all of which I love!). By greeting one another with, “Christ is risen!” the focus is put on what this day is really all about. 

I do believe Easter Sunday is the most important day in the Christian calendar. After all, Jesus’ birth, his life and teachings, and his death on the cross all ultimately find their meaning in the resurrection. For, if Jesus had been born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, taught with the authority he did, died on a cross, was buried in a tomb, but did not rise from the dead, all of it would have been for naught. If the resurrection had not occurred, there would be no such thing as Christianity, no Church, and no reason for us to put our faith in Christ. Worst of all, we would have been left in our sins, with no hope of salvation. Although it’s important for us to remember and appreciate all that is associated with Good Friday, without the hope of Easter Sunday, the death of Jesus would simply be a reminder of the hopelessness of living in an evil, sin-filled, and unjust world.  

As the Apostle Paul wrote, “…if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith… if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.” But he goes on to say, “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead….” (1 Corinthians 15:14, 17, 20 – NIV)

I’m so thankful for Paul’s reminder that, “…Christ has indeed been raised from the dead.” After all, because of the resurrection, you and I and all who believe have hope not just for this life, but for the life to come. 

So this coming Easter Sunday, let’s worship with exuberance and joy. Let’s lift up the name of the One who died for our sins and on the third day arose from the grave. And let’s greet each other as so many around the world will be doing: “Christ is risen!” “He’s risen indeed!” 

Have a blessed Easter Sunday! Christ is risen!

- Pastor Tim Harris