Easter marks the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus, the cornerstone of the Christian faith. Without the resurrection, there would be no foundation for Christianity. But because Jesus rose from the dead, hope is not only alive—it is victorious. His first words to the disciples after rising, “Peace be with you,” express the heart of the Easter message. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict; it is a promise of restoration, purpose, and life.

The Importance of Truth: The Story of Hiro Onoda

Hiro Onoda, a Japanese soldier who stayed hidden in the jungle for decades after World War II, refused to believe the war was over. His story is a powerful picture of how some live in denial, fear, or despair by rejecting the truth. Christianity offers a truth that sets people free—a truth grounded in reason, lived experience, and scripture. This truth invites individuals into a life of real, enduring hope.

Shalom: A Peace That Restores

When Jesus said, “Peace be with you,” He spoke of shalom—a Hebrew word that goes beyond mere calm. Shalom means wholeness, completeness, and well-being. Jesus’ words on the cross, “It is finished,” declared that this peace had arrived. Humanity’s rebellion brought shame, fear, guilt, and broken relationships. But Jesus’ death and resurrection repaired what was lost. This divine peace sustains people even in suffering, offering hope rooted in the resurrection.

Scars That Speak: The Christian Answer to Evil

After His resurrection, Jesus showed His scars—permanent marks of suffering and sacrifice. These scars are not erased; they are embraced as symbols of redemption. They speak to a God who does not ignore pain but enters into it. Jesus, though sinless, bore the sin of the world. His scars are a permanent reminder of the cost of peace and the depth of His love. In eternity, they remain—a testament to redemption.

Believing Without Seeing: Trusting the Scriptures

The Bible exists to reveal God and lead people to Him. The New Testament was written during the lifetime of eyewitnesses who had nothing to gain and everything to lose for telling their story. Thomas, one of Jesus’ disciples, believed only after seeing Jesus’ scars. Yet Jesus said, “Blessed are those who have not seen, and yet believe.” Faith is not blind; it is trusting a credible, beautiful story that invites people into peace and purpose.

The “Already, But Not Yet”: Living in God’s Timeline

Though Jesus brought peace, pain and suffering still remain. That’s because we live in the “already, but not yet”—the time between Jesus’ first and second coming. God’s kingdom has begun but is not yet fully realized. Shalom is accessible, but its full expression is still on the horizon. This tension explains the coexistence of real peace and real pain.

Living Sent: Identity and Purpose in Christ

Easter also redefines identity. Followers of Jesus are no longer defined by appearance, talent, or possessions—but by being loved by Jesus. This new identity leads to a new mission. Just as Jesus was sent, His followers are sent to love, serve, and share the truth. The Christian life mirrors Jesus’ pattern of death and resurrection—dying to self and rising to new life. True success is being like Christ and faithfully living out God’s calling.

An Invitation to Peace: For All Who Seek

The story of a man on death row who found peace through faith in Jesus is a powerful illustration of hope. Even as he faced execution, he rested peacefully because he no longer feared death. Christianity welcomes all who believe, regardless of background. Jesus calls out to the confused, anxious, broken, and doubting: come and see. In Him is peace with God, peace within, and peace that lasts forever.