Easter: Grace that Changes Everything

Written by Anna J Ketchum

Day 1: Stronger Stuff

Most of us have heard the basics of the Easter story: Jesus Christ, Son of God, died and rose again.

But why did he do that?

We find our answer way back at the beginning of the Bible, in another story most of us already know. Adam and Eve had a perfect existence and a happy relationship with God until they sinned.

And when they sinned, they hid.

Now, God knows everything, so he already knew that they sinned and that they were hiding from him.

So why does God come to the garden and call out, "Where are you?"

He calls out to Adam and Eve because he knows why they hide. They're hiding because they're ashamed. They're hiding because they're afraid of punishment.

But God doesn't want them to feel ashamed or afraid. He wants them to return to the happy relationship they've always had. So he calls for them, asks them what they've done, is honest about what their sin has cost them, provides for their needs, and promises redemption.

And that's why Jesus died and rose again. He knows how each of us has done things that we regret, things that make us want to hide. Jesus died on the cross to provide for your needs, and he rose from the dead to bring you redemption.

The Easter story is about Jesus coming to us and calling out, "Where are you?"

If you're feeling stuck in sin and you're tired of feeling ashamed and afraid, don't worry. All you have to do is call back, "I'm here. I'm sorry. Please help me!"

Next Step:

Watch this video, Stronger Stuff, and think about these questions:

1. Who is the safest person you know? Who can you tell anything to and know they won't judge you?
2. Sometimes, our life experiences can leave us wondering if God is a safe person, or we may find that the old ways we used to connect with God don't feel safe anymore. At this point in your life, what environment or practice helps you feel safe with God?