As we lean into this beautiful week, there is an undeniable electricity in the air. We are preparing to celebrate the most pivotal moment in human history: the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

It is a story of contrast—one that takes us from the dusty, crowded streets of Jerusalem to the quiet, empty tomb. As we get ready for Sunday, let’s take a moment to reflect on the events of that "terribly wonderful" day.

From Hosanna to the Hill

Imagine the scene: Jerusalem was overflowing. Devout Jews had gathered for the Passover, a tradition spanning centuries to remember their deliverance from Egyptian bondage. Amidst the smell of bitter herbs and the bustle of the Seder preparations, Jesus rode into the city on a young colt. The air rang with shouts of "Hosanna!" Yet, in less than a week, the atmosphere shifted. The hero became a villain in the eyes of the crowd; the celebrity became a criminal. From the upper room to the Garden of Gethsemane, and finally to the Roman courts, Jesus endured the unimaginable. He was mocked, scourged, and crowned with thorns, eventually carrying his own cross to Golgotha, the place of the skull.

A Mother’s Heart and a Savior’s Cry

Can you imagine what Mary felt as she stood at the foot of that cross? Did her mind race back to the angel’s visit thirty years prior? Did she see the man struggling for breath and remember the toddler taking his first steps? It was a scene of horrific injustice—her firstborn, beaten and bruised, hanging before a jeering crowd.

Then, the moment that changed everything. Jesus spoke his final words: "It is finished." He bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

The Work is Just Beginning

To the world, "finished" meant the end. But in the economy of God, it was only the beginning! While the rule of sin and death was defeated in that moment, the power of Jesus was just getting started.

We celebrate a "strange" event because it fundamentally shifted eternity. We serve a God who proves that the comeback is always greater than the setback. People don’t usually walk out of tombs or appear behind locked doors—but Jesus did.

This Easter Sunday is a vibrant reminder that our work isn't finished until every person has the opportunity to hear this Good News.

Gather a crowd! Fill every seat with neighbors, friends, coworkers, and even enemies. Let’s come together to celebrate the fact that Jesus settled the score, walked out of the grave, and is still moving today.

He is risen! He is risen indeed!