Yesterday, I felt sad. As I reflect on it, I think missing church this Easter Sunday will be the hardest thing I have experienced so far in this unprecedented time. I will miss the glorious anthem our choir sings. I will miss the beauty of the sanctuary, filled with spring flowers. I will miss the wonderful congregational singing at my church, Liberty Road Faith Fellowship. I will attend the service, live on Facebook, beginning at 10:45 AM, but it won’t be the same as sitting in the choir loft and looking out at the church full of worshiping people.

But further reflection reminds me that I love Easter Sunday for reasons that are just as true this year as in the last two thousand years. Christ is risen. He is risen indeed. That is why we celebrate. That is why we have hope in these dark times. That is why we know there is light, not just at the end of this dark tunnel, but at the end of our days. God is, was, and will continue to be in control. That gives me comfort when I feel helpless.

So, I will celebrate Easter, watching church on my computer, but most importantly, worshiping God. I will take a walk in the beautiful world He created. I will thank Him for all the people who are putting themselves in harm’s way to care for the sick. I will thank Him for providing all that I need, including my no-sew mask which is washable. May you know joy and peace as you celebrate Easter.