I am  the resurrection and the life.  (John 11:28)

"He is dead.  Our hope is destroyed."  Jesus' friends sat in the dark room, remembering His words and His works, especially His last day, that sad Friday.

"It felt as if the world were angry," said one of His friends.

"Yes, I can still hear the thunder growling in the sky and the lightening ripping open the earth.  I was afraid," another admitted.  "Will it ever be light again?"

The others shook their heads.  "The sun will never shine for us again.  The light of our world has gone out."

Those gathered cried for they missed their friend.  They cried because what they had hoped for would now, never happen.  The  long night was dark with pain, especially the pain of their denial.

"We should have died with Him.  Why did we flee and not fight for our Master?"

The dark night of despair grew longer, and the next day was worse.  The sun did not shine.  The world was silent and still.  They fell on their knees and prayed.  The day flowed into the ever darker nght and they prayed on.

Deep in prayer they did not hear her come, as she thre open the door and sunlight flooded the room.

"The sun is dancing!" Mary cried.  "The world is alive again."

Blinking in the bright sunlight, they ran to the window.  Some of them rushed outside to see for themselves. The sun was indeed dancing!  "The sun is shining!  It's a new day!" They cried to one another.

Mary shouted, "Jesus is risen!"

"Christ is risen!" they all shouted with joy and the sun filled world seemed to reply, "He is risen indeed!"

May we shout - HE IS RISEN!

Happy Easter.  He is risen indeed!

Learn more about Cross Community Church online: www.crosscommunityberne.org