Hope is one of the most powerful things in this life. It allows us to persevere against all of the struggles and difficulties our existence has to offer. But the reality is that no matter how well we fight the good fight, in the end is death. And that is hopelessness. No matter how well we live, no matter how much we enjoy or accomplish… in the end is death.

But we have been shown there is a real hope beyond death. God, our creator, in his infinite mercy and grace lowered himself to provide a means to allow us more. Even though we deserve death, that it is a just reward for the myriad of failed choices we make in this life, there is hope. A way we can be guiltless even though we are overcome with guilt. A way we can have peace even though we have waged war. A way we can be forgiven even though we are unforgivable.
Jesus, laid it all out. He lowered himself, He humbled himself to become one of His creation, so that He can take on our guilt and shame and sin. And offer us real hope. And then He proved his promises by overcoming death itself. All for us. For you and me.

Like the father in the prodigal son, he hiked his shirt and ran across the field to greet each one of us who return to Him. For he has made a way. For He IS hope.

May God bless you on this glorious day. He is risen! He is Alive!