April 12 will be here before we know it. But maybe Easter eggs, crosses with white cloths draped over them, Easter brunch, and singing, “I Know that My Redeemer Lives,” are the furthest thing from your mind right now. After all, we’re not really experiencing the typical beginning-of-spring routine.
It’s interesting that the COVID-19 pandemic is happening during the season at church we call Lent. Lent means spring, and it’s the time when the church zeros in on Jesus’ suffering, death, and perfect victory in our place. Lent is a time when believers are reminded what it looks like to follow Jesus. Following Jesus means carrying a cross.
But Lent ends with Easter. Jesus rises again in triumph. The whole point of Lent, when we see Jesus suffering, is to remember how this ends. Easter is coming.
If things are seeming dark right now, if the depression is setting in, if you’re feeling especially empty without the handshakes and hugs, don’t forget: Easter is coming.
One day the social distancing will end. One day we will all sing together, “I Know that My Redeemer Lives” (even if it has to be a different day than April 12). One day we will be carried to Abraham’s side. One day Jesus will wipe every tear from our eyes. One day we will never get sick again. One day our bodies will be raised in glory and we will live in perfect heavenly community. One day Easter will be the prevailing reality.
Till then, remember: Easter is coming!
Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning (Psalm 30:5).
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