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BISHOP'S OFFICE

“He Lives” is a song I learned as a child and it continues to be one of my favorites. My mother and I would often sing it together and harmonize on the chorus. We would often sing this hymn on Easter Sunday but it would not be uncommon for us to sing it throughout the rest of the year. These familiar words have been welling up in my soul as I have journeyed towards Easter.

I appreciate the famous expression from St. Augustine, “He who sings prays twice,” because as I lift my voice to sing this song it has become my prayer of petition and thanksgiving to God. It is my way of joyfully acknowledging that in every circumstance or situation not only is Jesus sustaining me by his wisdom, mercy and grace but I also have peace in my heart knowing that through Him I have the victory. Because Jesus lives … I live also! 

“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, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade.”
- 1 Peter 1:3-4a (NIV)

The Easter story gives us reason to celebrate! The Easter story conveys the truth and promise that Jesus Christ is risen and is alive forever more. Christ has died! Christ is risen! Christ will come again!

As Christians, our sure and certain hope is grounded in the fact and belief that through the life, death and resurrection of Christ we are continually being made new through God’s love. God’s spirit is always at work redeeming, restoring and transforming our lives and bringing about His rule and reign … justice and peace in the world.

Easter reminds us that there is nothing (no thing) too hard for God! Through the power of the Resurrection that is already at work in us … our faith can overcome fear, trials can turn into testimonies, miracles can come out of a mess and praise can have victory over pain. Because Jesus lives … we live also!

I pray you experience the joy of Easter, today and always! May your life be a witness to the transforming power of the Resurrection! May others know and experience the love of God and the saving grace of Christ through your sharing of the Word of God and you being the very embodiment of Christ in the world.