By Kay Owen-Larson

“And the angel answered and said unto the women, do not be afraid; for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified.  He is not here; for He is risen.”  Matthew 28:5-6

What does Easter mean to us and what difference does it make in our lives that Jesus has risen?

Even though I enjoy all of the “fun” things about Easter, even as a child I knew the true meaning of this special day.  This is the day when we are reminded that Jesus truly lived; that He was born, died for our sins, and rose again – and this day should have a significant impact on our lives.

Jesus was born,  lived and ministered to the multitudes, was compelled to bear His own cross to a hill outside Jerusalem, was nailed to that cross, died and was buried in a stone tomb. (I have personally been to the empty tomb on two different occasions, it is life-changing) But, three days later, when the stone covering the entry to the tomb was rolled away, in an instant, history was changed forever.  For while religious leaders have come and gone, the fact remains – only One stepped forth from the tomb.  Only One has risen from the dead.  Only One has conquered death.  Only One offers the promise of eternal life to those who follow Him.

Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life, he who believes in Me will live, even though he dies, and whoever lives and believes in Me will never die.”  John 11:25-26

So what difference does Easter make?  We can celebrate victory of life over death; we can give our children and grandchildren the promise that Jesus lives, and we can declare that Jesus is Lord over all of our lives.
The greatest joy we can have is to know the Risen Savior. I can’t image the joy they felt when they gathered at the tomb that day and saw that the stone was rolled away.

Have a very blessed Easter!