For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his.

Romans 6:5

We are all feeling it, the heaviness of this unexpected health crisis. This Spring feels anything but ordinary. Some people feel frantic, trying to prepare for extended quarantines. Others feel stuck or lonely or bored. Some worry about the future, their finances, their loved ones. Some believe there’s a whole lot of overreaction for nothing. Most are simply longing for the return of normalcy and are willing to risk much to get there. Every one of us can at least agree that this pandemic and its negative effects on this world were totally unexpected. 

Over 2000 years ago, people felt this way, too. During a tumultuous time in history, much uncertainty and suspicion surrounded a man who drew crowds wherever He went—healing, inviting, loving, and teaching. Some were frantically trying to reach Him, to touch Him and be healed. Some felt stuck in their dire circumstances, and many worried about the future. Many believed there was too much overreaction—by His followers on one side and the religious leaders on the other. Most of those leaders just wanted things to return to normal and were willing to do whatever it took to get there. Even a Roman-style execution.

Perhaps this is the best way to celebrate Easter, during such an unexpected, uncertain time. Because the very first Easter was unexpected, too. No one saw it coming: not the disciples or the crowds of followers or the religious leaders. That Friday there was chaos. Frenzied crowds were shouting, “Crucify Him!” There was anger, confusion, disappointment, and grief from Christ’s followers. They had given up everything to follow Him, but that day all their hope was nailed to a rough, wooden cross. This man who calmed the sea, turned water to wine, gave sight to the blind, and cast out demons was dead and buried. And so were all of His promises…but He wasn’t just a man, and that wasn’t the end. 

There was an unexpected miracle, an unexpected empty grave, and an unexpected message—Jesus is ALIVE! The unexpected Son of God gave everything to be with us. He is with us now, right in the middle of this unexpected crisis. Perhaps this slowing down, this forced redirecting of our priorities, is exactly the right kind of Easter. Because Easter is all about the unexpected things God does! When we walk through disappointments, He gives unexpected hope. When we experience despair, He gives unexpected joy. When we keep running away, He pursues us over and over again and welcomes us back with unexpected grace. Easter is all about our Risen Lord and the unexpected daily resurrections, transformations, recoveries, conversions, and blessings only HE can bring! Even in the daily uncertainties, one thing is certain today and forever—because Jesus LIVES, we can expect eternal life!! So celebrate BIG! Not because of this current crisis, but in spite of it! Happy Easter! You are deeply loved!