Happy Easter

Where in the world are Christians during this Easter Weekend?  I decided to research news agencies and find out what is happening to Christians throughout the world.  My intent is somewhat to broaden our scope on the significance of Easter Sunday and Christ’s continuing presence on earth. The impact of the empty tomb has universally transformed the church to share with the world God’s reconciliatory act of restoring creation into a newness that reflects Christ.  Here are a couple stories where maybe God’s “resurrection/Easter” action is in the world today: 

Pakistani Christians (1%) of the country’s population are being persecuted because militants blame them for the U.S. drone attacks.  I cannot imagine the pain that these brothers and sisters are going through.  I cannot even imagine what Easter means for the persecuted.  I’m thinking it has little to do with Easter egg hunts and baskets. May God give them peace and I pray that they continue to show Christ, even to their violent neighbors (http://www.foxnews.com/world/2011/04/23/pakistani-deprived-christian-community-say-theyre-persecuted/?test=latestnews)

Tens of Thousands of Christians pilgrimage to Jerusalem during this weekend and celebrate and worship Christ the risen.  This is a significant event in the town of Jerusalem, a place often depicted as oppressive between the three Abrahamic traditions (Jews, Muslims, and Christians).   It would be formative to walk the streets of Jerusalem and to somewhat re-imagine Christ’s sacred works.  (http://www.foxnews.com/world/2011/04/23/thousands-pilgrims-attending-holy-ritual/?test=latestnews). 

I realize that most of those reading this blog will not understand the practice of monasticism (being “monk-like”).  In a famous monastery in Greece, on Mount Athos, a media crew finally got an exclusive interview with monks that have excluded themselves from the outside world for over a thousand years.  These groups of monks primary purpose is to eat, work, and pray.  Their entire lives are dedicated to spiritual disciplines where they believe they can encounter God.  While I do not understand all of this, I find it comforting that people have dedicated their lives to prayer (http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/2011/04/22/inside-an-ancient-monastery/?hpt=C2)

Speaking of Prayer.  Say what you want about Governor Perry (TX), but on Thursday he made national headlines as he asked God for rain for the state of Texas.  While I’m sure one could find concerns in his statement, I at least find assurance when government officials openly ask for God to act. (http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/2011/04/22/praying-for-rain-in-texas/)

There are more headlines and stories that are happening on Easter Sunday.  For me, the story of Jesus Christ and his resurrection is one that should always be remembered.  Maybe as important as its historical significance is how it presently shapes faith across the globe.  Happy Easter. 

Mic Biesboer

Stephenville, Texas