an Easter message...

this morning's Easter sunrise message... written and offered by Kaby Eremondi, an amazing grade 11 student and a member of McClure United Church.  Thanks Kaby for giving me permission to share.

"When we think of Easter morning, we all know the usual story of triumph and joy.  No one even thinks of the focus of this account: fear.  In all reality, although it may not seem like the most favourable account, it is likely one of the most accurate.  Even though Jesus told his followers that this would happen, how could they possibly believe it?  After all, nothing like this had ever happened before, and it hasn't happened since.  Can you imagine the fear going through their heads when Jesus' words became truth?  In our lives today, we all feel this fear at one point or another.  Think back to the scariest moments in your life.  Remember your first day of high school?  Your first day at a new job?  The truth is, we all feel fear.  But fear is not the end.  Through their fear, the courage and joy of Easter comes through.  After all, isn't that what Easter is truly about... overcoming obstacles, doing the impossible and facing our fears?  Even being here, at this hour of this Easter morning shows this side of Easter.  We all face our fears, brave the new day and remember what Jesus and Easter are all about."

AMEN