Jesus’ disciples lost him through the cross but then regained him through his glorious resurrection. With the culmination of his work, he brings them and all his followers unbridled and unending joy. How so? It all rests on this fact: Easter still stands! Jesus rose from the dead!

Therefore, grief turns to joy just like a mother’s childbirth pain turns to elation. This kind of joy made a believing woman like Lydia open her home to Christ’s ambassador Paul. This kind of joy is experienced when we see that God is making all things new. This kind of joy is ours right now as we share in his everlasting peace and promises.