It seems like a normal Friday.  I’m sitting in my living room watching my son circle around like a vulture on all fours hoping to find some Cheerios or Kix that Leah might have dropped.  Meanwhile, Leah remains glued to the newest episode of My Friends Tigger and Pooh while I peruse MSN and ESPN to see what’s happening with the real Tiger… that is Woods and catch up on the news.

But it’s not the beginning of a typical weekend.  It’s the beginning of THE weekend.  People love to put “THE” in front of things to show its primacy and importance.  In Ohio, I grew up hearing about THE Ohio State University.  The other day I went on a date with a few other couples to listen to THE Brian Reegan.  Whenever we put this simple article in front of something we’re distinguishing it from any imitations and wannabees.  So, when I say it is the beginning of THE WEEKEND, it means this weekend is different, special, unique, one of a kind. 

It’s Easter weekend.  THE WEEKEND that divinity, in the person of Jesus, was betrayed by his own.  THE WEEKEND when divinity was arrested, tied up, spit on, punched, abused, tortured, mocked, rejected, disgraced, nailed and killed.  THE WEEKEND when earthquakes rocked the ground and split stones, when heaven mourned the death of the Son, when the sun stopped shining, when temple curtains were ripped in half and when bodies resting in graves sprung to life.  THE WEEKEND when friends wailed, friends ran and when a betrayer spilled his own blood.  THE WEEKEND when hope was thought to be lost, when Satan celebrated, when demons burst out in victory chants.  THE WEEKEND when death couldn’t overpower deity.  THE WEEKEND when Jesus left nothing more than burial clothes and stale air in the grave!  THE WEEKEND when the penalty for sin was paid for anyone who believes.  THE WEEKEND when the forgiveness was offered to the world.  Not just any forgiveness… God’s forgivness.  THE WEEKEND when life was offered to the world.  Not just any life… eternal life.  Easter is THE WEEKEND!!!  

Have you come to grips with the story of Jesus’ death and resurrection?  Have you ever considered the impact of what it all means if it’s true?  Think about it, research it, pray about it and journey through your own heart and conscience for the answer.  If you seek Him, God promises you’ll discover Him.

I believe all this all to be true.  I know, when you picture the events of THE WEEKEND, it sounds like some kind of sci-fi/horror film.  But, I believe it’s REALITY!  It’s true and nothing has changed my life more!  That’s what makes it THE WEEKEND!!