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We live for Jesus lives

Commentary

Rejoice! Jesus is alive! That is the greatest of news that is declared every Easter. Two weeks ago Pastor Novack, in his excellent column, explained for you the importance of the first Easter and Jesus’ resurrection. For all of those reasons we truly celebrate this Holy Day, rejoicing in all that it means. Being such a grand, glorious, and most important of events we celebrate it not just for one day or even one week, but seven weeks.

In the celebration of Easter, as well as in our daily lives all year long, we recognize how that event impacts how we live. Jesus’ resurrection not only means that He is alive, but that we also have a new life. The forgiveness of our sins, gained for us by Jesus’ death and resurrection, touches our lives in many ways.

We are given a new outlook on life. Reunited to our gracious God we are freed from a life of fear, even when faced with fearful times. When dealing with all the different aspects of life, we have hope. For we know that we have a God who watches over us. He can and will help us. Even when we do not see or understand how something is for our good we trust His promise: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

As that verse also mentions our love for God. We know that we have such love because that is how we respond to His love for us. This is not just a love in an affectionate way, but a love that God showed to us in His choosing to love us even in our being so unlovable. As sinners we did not deserve anything from God but wrath and punishment. Instead He chose to love us and send His Son Jesus to pay for our sins. He did what was best for us even as it cost Him so dearly to do so. So, we can now truly love because God loves us. Experiencing His undeserved love we are given the ability to be so loving toward others. A love that seeks to do what is best for them; helping them even at our expense.

Such love and forgiveness that brings us hope also gives us joy and peace in life. We rejoice even when we do not feel joyful. We have peace even when our lives may be in turmoil. As Jesus says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)

So we see Jesus’ resurrection at work in our lives. He has changed our lives. He has given us a new life even as He declares, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:10)

To learn more about a new life, please visit or contact St. Paul Lutheran Church, Fredonia (672-6731), Immanuel Lutheran Church, Gowanda (532-4342), or Trinity Lutheran Church, Silver Creek (934-2002).

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