Easter was just 3 days ago and I hope you are still feeling the joy in your heart of Jesus’ glorious resurrection. 

As we know, a resurrection is preceded by death. Jesus died for all of us. This brings to my mind the bible verse John 15:13, “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.”  When I was younger, I never really understood or agreed with this. Laying my life down for my husband, my sons and my family I would do. My love for them is so intense and deep I would not even have to think about it. But a friend? I love my many friends but is my love strong enough to lay my life down? That is huge!

But Jesus did. He did it for all of us. John 15:15 says, “…I have called you friends…” and verse 16 continues with “You did not choose me, but I chose you…” He said this to his disciples. Now we are his disciples and he says it to us. He laid his life down for you and for me. He really gave us the greatest gift — His greatest love. He gave us his life. 

His love and his life doesn’t end with his death. His resurrection allows him to live again. He conquered death and lives! He lives for us and in us, in our hearts and souls.

Resurrection: rising from the dead. This brings to my mind starting over, a new beginning, a do-over if you will. I would like to resurrect my heart and soul to be a better disciple. I want to start over in my thoughts and attitudes. I want a new beginning in the way I love my family and my friends. 

I pray the remainder of this Easer season causes us to reflect deeply on the love Jesus has for us, and help us to share His love to those we meet.

I wish you all continued Easter blessings. 

“Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13 NIV

“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you …” Ezekiel 36:26 NIV

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” 1 Peter 1:3 NIV