SORROW MINGLED WITH JOY

This time of year is an oxymoron! So much sorrow– and so much joy, at the same time.

“Sorrow” - when we look through the windows of our home, at our yard and see the vestiges of winter melding with spring: broken twigs from the trees; weeds outpacing flowers that are beginning to push through the soil; dusty deck and patios. We’re facing so much work to do to get it all cleaned up – and so little time and energy to accomplish it!

Joy - when we see those colorful, fragrant flowers beginning to grow; buds on the trees; warmer days and nights; birds beginning to look for places to build their nests – all speaking of beauty about to burst forth; and, the hope of new of life.

Sorrow – when we consider anew the betrayal, denial and forsakenness that Jesus experienced when He was here on earth; the reality that it was OUR sins He bore on His body on the cross. The painful, shame-filled, undeserved death of our Savior is so hard to deeply and thoughtfully ponder.

Joy – unending joy – to realize that, it was His incredible love for us that kept Jesus on the cross until His Father’s plan, our salvation, was completed; and that, tho’ He died, He rose again; and that His resurrection guarantees OUR resurrection and the reality of Heaven for all who believe in His Name.

Easter is a time of great sorrow, yes; but, also of great joy and blessing. Oh, the HOPE it provides that we can know we have Jesus beside us here on earth to help us through the challenges and heartaches we experience. And, the HOPE that life on this earth is not “all there is.” Instead, we have the glory of Heaven forever, with Jesus and with our loved ones who have gone before us!