We continue with “Perspectives on Easter” – our new series focused on the people who played both major and minor roles in the Easter narrative, as well as the relevant places, practices, artifacts, and traditions related to Easter. Today we will set the stage for what is to come.
The essence of Easter is a journey from darkness to light. Jesus emerges victorious and glorious on Easter Sunday after languishing in the darkness of the tomb. On Good Friday, the disciples are shrouded in the darkness of despair. Yet on Sunday, they are filled with the light of joy and happiness. God sends angels to release His Son from the tomb and their brightness overwhelms the Roman soldiers who are on guard. For millennia, the Earth was held hostage by the darkness of an enemy, a fallen angel. But on one Sunday morning, the Light of the World conquered death, prevailed over the grave, and redeemed fallen humanity.
Scriptures referenced include Luke 1:78-79; Malachi 3:1; Malachi 4:2, 6; John 1:1-9, 19–23; Matthew 5:3–8; Luke 4:18–19; Song of Solomon 8:6-7; John 3:16; John 15:13; Romans 8:34; John 14:19; and Psalm 30:5.
Today’s episode introduces Isaac Watts, the “Father of English Hymnody,” and his 1707 masterpiece “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross.” Rather than simply recounting...
Amos is a shepherd and a fruit picker from the Judean village of Tekoa when God calls him, even though he lacks an education...
Dismas and Gestas are the names sometimes mentioned as the two thieves crucified on crosses to the right and left of Jesus. In the...
