He is risen!  This is the perfect way, the only way, to start the best day in the Christian year.

He is risen!  These are the first words I speak to Tom on Easter morning, the first words I say to everyone I meet at church, the first words I speak to anyone I call on Easter Sunday.

He is risen – and even typing the words starts the thrill, the wonder, stirring in my soul.  God, the almighty God, creator of the universe, loves each one of us so much that he sent his son.  Jesus Christ, loves each of us so much that he was willing to die for us.  And, miracle of miracles, Jesus Christ rose again from that grave.  This story never gets old, never fails to excite me.

It doesn’t matter where you are worshiping on Easter Sunday.  The size of the congregation, even the power of the worship service doesn’t matter.  He is still risen – he still claims each one of us – he still calls us his own and offers us the gift of salvation, eternal life, resurrection.

Whether we are the women at the tomb on that first Easter or whether we have seen 100 Easters, seeing that empty tomb never gets old.  It is the story of hope after despair, of life after death, of resurrection after crucifixion.  A message that each one of needs to hear, to remember.  In which each one of us can rejoice.

So have a joyous Easter wherever you are.  Rejoice in the resurrection of our Lord and Savior.  Celebrate with food and fancy clothes.  Enjoy hunting for eggs, sharing a smile, going into the crowded churches and singing the awe-filled songs.

Christ the Lord is risen today!  Alleluia!