This weekend Christians around the world celebrate the holiest of days — Easter. It is the day that commemorates not only sacrifice but resurrection.

It is a celebration of light, hope, renewal and promise.

“The angel said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.’ So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples.” (Matthew 28: 5-8 — NIV)

In that moment, when the angel commissioned the women to spread the word — first to the men who were still in hiding, but later to the whole region — that hope began to spread again, too.

For Christians, Easter is a reminder, too, that the fruits of that hope must sometimes be believed to be seen.

For many others, this weekend’s celebrations usher in the return of the sun, not just the Son.

Colorful clothing, colorful candies — maybe even a dinner with family and friends who have not been seen since the holidays months before — it all serves to reawaken joy that may have dimmed during the dark, cold winter.

Spring is here.

Life is returning to the earth.

We are stepping out into the light at the end of winter’s dank tunnel.

Be joyful, be hopeful, and have a very happy Easter!

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“Easter was when Hope in person surprised the whole world by coming forward from the future into the present.”

— English theologian N.T. Wright

“Easter is the soul’s first taste of spring.”

— Author Richelle E. Goodrich