Easter: Beyond The BunnySample

He Has Risen!

Yesterday you read about The Crucifixion of Jesus Christ, and the pain and torture He went through to give you eternal life. Do you ever struggle with pain and feel as if no one understands? When these thoughts arise remember Jesus went through the pain of being whipped and beaten beyond recognition, nails piercing His palms, a stake driven through His feet and a crown made our of thorns plunged into his head while being ridiculed as "King of the Jews!"   People spat on Him, and even gambled to see who would get his clothes. 

Jesus suffered terrible emotional pain too. Judas, one of His disciples, betrayed Jesus and told the Roman soldiers where Jesus was so they could arrest him. Some of His friends  denied  knowing him. He was made fun of and left out. He was misunderstood by most. The New Testament book of John, chapter 7, verse 5, tells you, "even His brothers did not believe in Him."  But Jesus never lost hope, even in death. He knew that His sacrifice would provide mankind a joy-filled life of hope! He knew His Father God loved Him. He knew He would rise from the grave three days later.

 Like Jesus, at times you may feel friendless, rejected and that you just don't fit in. Jesus understands your pain.  He lived it! The good news is that God has made a way so  you too can experience resurrection. When you understand the true meaning of Easter and ask God to forgive you, trusting and believing that Jesus Christ took the punishment for your sin on the cross, you will rise again too. 

But your resurrection won't only happen after your physical death.   You will experience a resurrection of hope, joy, peace, love and belonging everyday as you place your faith in Jesus Christ.  God loves you unconditionally. He has felt the pain and sorrow you may be going through right now. He's here for you. He's close.... just talk to Him. Tell Him you are "dying" to your old way of living so you can live with him now and for eternity. Let the Lord resurrect your heart this Easter.  Go beyond the bunny! 

How do the following relate to the Easter Story?

• Soldier's Spear:
• Linen Cloth:

To see if your answers are right, continue to the following readings.