I’ve always struggled with the idea

that Jesus’ death and resurrection

opened the gates of heaven.

If we believe in the unconditionally loving God

about whom we were taught,

then to whom would those gates be closed?

As we sing our Alleluias

while closing our hearts to those

we don’t understand

or who believe differently,

then what good are our songs?

What are we celebrating

when we turn away from the poor,

reject the refugee,

and refuse care to those in need?

The purpose of the resurrection

is not so that “believers” might receive

their “get out of jail” card

while the rest suffer an eternity in hell.

Jesus’ rising simply proves that

Love is stronger than death.

The death that is made up of:

Prejudice and hatred.

Ignorance and greed.

Lust for power and pride.

And all the evils in between.

Love conquers it all.

But if we don’t know Love,

then Easter means nothing at all.

Copyright Lauri Ann Lumby

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