The celebration of Easter is unique for a number of reasons. All involve the letters "re":
--A reply from God regarding his love for those he created and the relationship he desires for each of us to have with him.
--The process of redemption that was so costly for Jesus:
a deep betrayal,
a rushed trial,
a mocking audience,
a released prisoner,
a indescribable beating,
a long walk,
a few nails,
a wooden sign,
a necessary crucifixion,
a pained cry,
a victory declaration,
a physical death.
--The people's rejection of who Jesus was and their resolve to make sure once he was buried, he remained buried, not to be taken away by those who were closest to him;
--Rejoicing about Mary's discovery a few days later at Jesus' tomb—grave clothes but nobody there (not to mention a large stone rolled away from the entrance and an angel sitting on top of it);
--The reveal of Jesus to Mary, who thought he was a gardener near the tomb. She realized it was him when he called her name;
--The resurrection and return of Jesus following his death, seen by more than five hundred people over a period of forty days;
--The restoration of God's people to himself, beginning with the response of allowing Jesus to be our Forgiver and Leader. As a result, we're remade on a daily basis into someone who becomes more and more like him (in other words, we're rescued from ourselves);
--The renewal and rebirth one experiences firsthand as a result of taking Jesus at his word and believing that he was (and still is) who he claimed to be.
I know there are more "re" words that can be used, but suffice it to say that the time of Easter is one of reflection, hope, and a reminder of the love we can experience yet not fully comprehend while alive on earth.
May you have a wonderful Easter. And may God refresh you, that you may in turn refresh others.
"The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said."
--Matthew 28:5-6 (NIV)
