Sometimes a new perspective on a single word or idea can penetrate our uneven emotions and get our attention in an unexpected way. When this happens, we experience the light bulb effect, the “aha” moment when we understand some deeper truth that gives us insight into the "hidden in plain sight" nature of God that inspires us to grow and move forward in life. This is the message, indeed the affect of the miracle of resurrection that sustains our experience of Easter throughout the year.

During this holy week, when much of the world observes the sacred days of Passover, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter, the underlying theology of each event that is commemorated and celebrated centers on the power of death, the intensity of grief, and the hope of redemption.

As we approach the events of Easter during the coming days, we are reminded that forgiveness is the gift of reconciliation with God through the cross, and in forgiveness, there is love, “To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness” (Daniel 9:9).

When spring is in the air, the beauty of nature holds the promise of new life, “for now the winter is past, the rain is over and gone” (Song of Solomon 2:11). Daffodils and tulips emerge from the earth, trees seem to burst into full leaf almost overnight. With every sight and signal that spring is here, we see evidence of the steadfast love and faithfulness of God.

Lent is a time of spiritual introspection and self-examination that leads to the renewal of our faith and a closer relationship with God.

What is the land of hope? Where is the land of hope? How do we pitch our tent in the land of hope when we grieve the death of one we love?

The seasons of nature are an integral part of God’s order in the world. The emotional muscle memory of grief often takes us by surprise. A time, a place, a smell, or an event can trigger our emotions and quickly transport us back to our experience of grief. Whatever the season, the heart remembers—always.

The assurance of God's faithfulness is that love is. Love is everlasting. Love is eternal. Love is real, “It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails (1 Corinthians 13:7-8 NIV).

Comfort is not a one-time, one-size-fits-all experience that can fix our grief and send us on our way in life. Rather, comfort is a recurring part of grief. When we grieve, God is persistent, often relentless in offering comfort, sometimes in ways we could never imagine. God comforts us again and again and again, “Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again; from the depths of the earth you will again bring me up. You will increase my honor and comfort me once again.” (Psalm 71:20-21 NIV).

What is it about grief that seems so at odds with the notion of recovery? When one we love dies, the feeling that all is lost seems far removed from any idea of recovery.

In case anyone needs permission, it is okay to admit that you feel relief when the holidays are history, over and done for another year. If we are honest, seasonal fatigue and exhaustion get the better of most of us at some time during or after the holiday season.

Whether you are surrounded by family, or find yourself alone in the days ahead, the experience of Christmas leads us inevitably to the manger. There we experience Emmanuel, God with us in the world in Christ. There we celebrate the light of the world.