What a blessed day! The birds are singing, the sun peeks out from behind billowing clouds, and joyful laughter fills the air as kids splash in the pool. These are the sounds of life, a beautiful reflection of the renewal we celebrate as we approach the day of our Lord’s resurrection.
We long for this season—not just to acknowledge the miracle of Easter, but to feel it, to let the hope of the resurrection take root in our hearts. But what if that hope feels distant? What if personal suffering and trials still weigh heavy on your soul? How do we truly embrace the Easter season when our struggles remain?
The answer is simple, yet powerful: We show up.
We’ve all heard the call to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). But let’s be honest—does that ever feel overwhelming? Life is busy. Responsibilities pull us in different directions, and we might wonder, How can I possibly pray without ceasing?
Here’s the good news: Prayer isn’t just about words. In my opinion, it’s about intentional living—doing all things for Him, through Him, and with love. When we serve others, when we show kindness, when we do our work with a heart focused on God, that itself becomes a prayer of love.
Looking at the passage before 1 Thessalonians 5:17, we gain even more insight:
“For God did not destine us for wrath, but to gain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep we may live together with him. Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up, as indeed you do. We ask you, brothers, to respect those who are laboring among you and who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you, and to show esteem for them with special love on account of their work. Be at peace among yourselves. We urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, cheer the fainthearted, support the weak, be patient with all. See that no one returns evil for evil; rather, always seek what is good (both) for each other and for all.
Rejoice always.
Pray without ceasing.
In all circumstances, give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.”
1 Thessalonians 5:9-18
This passage reminds us that our lives should be woven with purpose and love, not just busyness for the sake of being busy. So I ask you—are you truly pouring yourself into the lives of those around you? Are you caring for your family, friends, and community with a heart set on Him? Or are you just moving through the motions?
Of course, it’s important to make time for prayer, but don’t let the enemy twist this beautiful calling into something that causes stress or discouragement. Instead, let it be a gentle invitation—to see your daily actions as worship, to let love guide your efforts, and to trust that even in the midst of suffering, Christ is with you.
My prayer for you this Easter season is that hope fills your heart. If you are still carrying the weight of personal struggles, may this time remind you that a new day is coming. Easter is proof that darkness does not have the final word—resurrection, renewal, and radiant joy always break through.
Let’s embrace it together.
