"I am risen, and am present with thee, alleluia: thou has laid Thine hand upon me, alleluia; such knowledge is too wonderful and excellent for me, alleluia, alleluia."

These words of joyous comfort come to us from the Introit for Easter Day based upon a portion of Psalm 139. Regardless of our earthly circumstances, this is the day that Christians around the world can celebrate the victory over mankind's two greatest enemies: sin and death. Through the death, burial and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, we have confidence in the blessed hope that we who are in Christ will spend eternity with Him. We know that through the mighty events unfolding in the Story of our Redemption, the power of Love has prevailed over the love of power. The great message of Easter and Christ's resurrection gives us hope for the future of our world that His Kingdom will come on earth as it is in heaven.

But, how many people truly understand the great message of Easter and Christ's resurrection? How many lives are transformed by this mighty act of God for the salvation of the world? Some may give it a brief thought on this special occasion and then back to business as usual. It may be the semi-annual "nod at God" and then forgotten. May this not be the case with you who might be reading this! Rather, may this be a day of renewal of your heart and mind to the great gift you have been given and may it energize you through the working of the Holy Spirit to make this a new day in doing your part to take this message of hope to your world. What a great day to offer your life in thankful praises!

Paschal Blessings,

+Walter