Rejoice in the Darkness

Easter is a time of joy for many in the Christian community. It celebrates the resurrection of Jesus. In a more general sense it also celebrates rebirth, new beginnings, and a hope for eternal life. It is usually a time of brighter colors and family gatherings. Not this year though.

This year, humanity has been challenged in ways not seen in over 100 years. The steady stream of news is dark with the COVID19 virus infecting people at exponential rates and killing more people every day. The news talks about how the economy is in a recession; the stock market is crashing; increasing numbers of people out of work. Cities are empty and eerily quiet. And it continues.

For all these reasons, Easter has come at the perfect time this year. The message of Easter reminds us that this too will pass, that the mourning and fear we feel at night will be replaced by joy in the morning.

If you look closely this Easter you may not see children at their egg hunts but you will see much more. You’ll see people putting up pictures and stuffed animals in window sills to bring joy to neighbors on solitary walks. You’ll see nurses and doctors continue to go to work in spite a lack of personal protective equipment putting their own lives on the line to help others. You’ll see the young buying food for the elderly and homebound, as well as drive through food pantries. You’ll hear Andrea Bocelli sing beautiful spirituals in Italy. In short, you will see hope manifest.

#Seeing #Darkness #Paradigm