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Easter gifts
We may not receive many Easter presents from family or friends this year, but God gives us Easter gifts that are of eternal value and significance.
Forgiveness
As we journey through Easter, we discover that the death of Jesus on the cross is part of God’s eternal plan to bring about the redemption of our fallen world. Jesus, by his suffering and death, paid the price for our sin so that we can be forgiven. He told the disciples at the last supper that his blood would be poured out for the forgiveness of sins (Matthew 26:28).
Freedom from fear
The cross also brings us God’s gift of freedom from fear. When the women went to the tomb that first Easter morning, the angel told them, ‘Do not be afraid’ (Matthew 28:5). When Jesus appeared, he also said, ‘Do not be afraid’ (Matthew 28:10). The command ‘Do not be afraid’ appears 366 times in the Bible – that’s once for each day of the year and an extra one for a leap year!
Joy
We live in a world where it can often feel that there is not much to smile about. However, when Jesus rose again he brought us the gift of joy – joy that is not simply the absence of sorrow, but rather the joy that comes from God. A joy that enriches our lives, enabling us to feel secure in his love.
When the risen Lord appeared to his disciples, Luke 24:41 tells us that at first, ‘they still did not believe because of joy and amazement’. However, when the truth sank in, their overwhelming grief was replaced by overwhelming joy. I wonder if people will see a face of joy when they look at us this Easter?
Peace
Easter brings us the gift of God’s peace. The events of that first Easter morning were quite turbulent: an earthquake; stones rolling; soldiers shaking with fear; an angel appearing; people running around … and yet Jesus said, ‘Peace be with you.’ Many people try to attain peace by their own efforts, but true peace is God’s gift to us that allows us to face our tomorrows with calm assurance and confidence. ‘Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you’ (John 14:27).
Eternal life
It wasn’t just Jesus who was given new life on the first Easter day, but it is also God’s most precious gift to us all. Colossians 3:1-4 says, ‘Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.’
Because Jesus is raised from the dead, we have the promise of eternal life with him and the blessed assurance that one day we will see him face to face and live for ever in his glorious presence!
Mission
Easter is a gift to be shared! It is not just for the Church – it is for everyone and we need to share it. The women who went to the empty tomb did not keep the news to themselves – they had to share it, and were told by the angel in Matthew 28:7 to ‘Go quickly and tell his disciples.’ Who will we tell this Easter?
As we celebrate this Easter, may our hearts be filled with love and thanksgiving for the wonderful gifts of Easter that are given by God to us all.
