The four gospels of Jesus have two bookends– Christmas and Easter– both unexpected ways we received a very special gift.
For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life. (John 3:16 Amplified)
Jesus was expected by many– His birth, life and manner of death were described in incredible detail by prophets in the bible books of Genesis, Psalms, Isaiah and Daniel–1500, 1000, 800 and 500 years before. Still, there were surprises.
Christmas was a surprise. The King came as baby in humble circumstances.
Jesus’ life was a surprise. The main power He offered was in accepting His words.
Easter was a surprise. Death and sin were defeated by life and love.
Jesus’ own disciples didn’t understand, so you could say that the first Easter was a re-birthday surprise party for the disciples. Over 400 of the early followers of Jesus saw Him alive after His resurrection and, filled with joy at the meaning of the gospel– the message of the triumph of life over death– they began to fill the world with the Good News.
“Do you know what Easter means, honey?” In her own sweet three-year-old way, with arms raised, a smile on her face, and at the top of her voice she said, “Surprise!” What better word could sum up the meaning of Easter! Surprise, death! Surprise, sin! Surprise, mourning disciples! Surprise, modern man! He’s alive! — James S. Hewett, Illustrations Unlimited
