What I say to you in the dark, tell in the light; and what you hear whispered, proclaim from the housetops.  Matthew 10:27

On Easter, many churches hold sunrise celebrations. As the first glimmers of sun peek over the horizon, we sing, “He is Risen! Alleluia!” But John 20:1 says that Mary Magdolene went to the tomb “while it was still dark” and found it already empty.

 I did not appreciate that difference until that Easter morning years past. During the day I could reassure myself with scriptures like “All things work together for good for those who love God,” (Rom. 8:28) and “I am with you always,” (Matt. 28:20). But at around four AM, I would wake up in sheer terror.  That was the hour when I needed to be reassured that Jesus Christ lives and reigns. That was when I needed to be certain that he knew exactly what we were going through and was going through it with us. That was when I needed to know that no matter how bad things get, the risen Christ is Lord!

Sunrise Easter services are lovely, but we might do well to hold middle-of-the-night celebrations of the resurrection instead. We most need to be reminded of the power of God not when things are looking rosy but when our lives seem most frightening.

Dear Lord, when I wake in terror in the night, remind me of your continuing care for me. Amen.