Faith in a Time of Pandemic – Every Morning is Easter Morning

XXVIX.
EVERY MORNING IS EASTER MORNING
(4/
12)

“Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here, he has risen.” (Luke 24:5)
Our world is filled with death. Of course, there is nothing new about this. The mortality rate is 100%. Thousands of people die every day from cancer, heart disease, and flu. But this pandemic is different. It seems out of control, having emerged in our experience less than six months ago. We are confused and afraid as we practice physical distancing, wear masks, hesitate to go shopping or eating at familiar places. Many of our favorite restaurants and stores are closed, and public worship has been suspended. We are afraid of COVID-19, especially if we fall into a high risk group based on age and health condition.
Resurrection happens in a troubled world. Amid their fear and hopelessness, Jesus is Risen. This year, resurrection has become relevant in a very real way. Gone are the bonnets, flowery dresses, and for many family gatherings. Gone is the lovely music, the lilies, and greetings of friends. If we worship at sunrise, it will be in solitude not at our usual beach service.

Our resurrection experiences are more like the first disciples than the sumptuous and celebrative American Easters we are used to. For the first followers of Jesus resurrection came at the darkest hour. Resurrection brought new life despite continued persecution and uncertainty.
Yet, this is when resurrection happens. When death appears to be victorious, Christ is alive. Death continues, but it is no longer victorious. In Christ’s amazing resurrection, nothing can separate us from the love of – neither life or death – or anything else in creation can separate us from God’s love.

Resurrection is not an escape from death. Nor does resurrection take our attention from earth to heaven. Resurrection embeds us in daily life, in this good earth. Resurrection inspires us to embrace this holy moment, inspiring us to live each day fully, loving fully, and not wasting a moment.
+++

Holy God, we embrace your resurrection with every new day. Let us live fully today, loving fully and reaching out to one another. Amen.