DISNEYLAND OR THE PROMISED LAND?
Twenty-five years ago a cartoon appeared in the LA TIMES MAGAZINE, showing Lazarus having just been raised from the dead by Jesus (John 11:43,44). The caption underneath had someone shouting, “Where will you go now Lazarus?” to which Lazarus shouts back, “I’m going to Disneyland.” No doubt there will be many who will make the trip to Disneyland during the Easter Break, or the politically correct version, “Spring Break.” I find it sad that Easter no longer means celebrating the most significant event in human history—the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Instead it simply marks a break in the routine or a time to celebrate the arrival of warmer weather. I have often thought it curious that the historical numbering of years—BC and AD—all take their cue from the birth of Christ. Yet it seems to me that history—the real history of humanity—began when Jesus rose from the dead. Easter used to mean getting dressed up and worshipping in one’s church and singing such songs as “Up From the Grave He Arose” and the “Hallelujah Chorus”–vibrant songs of triumph and joy. But now it is simply a break and often an excuse to break all the rules of moral living. The truth of the matter is that Christ’s resurrection is the “New Year’s Day of the human soul.” Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life; he that believes in me, though he were dead, yet will he live.” This year, Disneyland or some other escape may be on your agenda, but remember that your entrance fee into the greatest paradise of all was paid for when Jesus cried out from the cross, “IT IS FINISHED.” Pastor Mike
