Today Christians around the world observe Good Friday by remembering the day Jesus willingly suffered and died a brutal death by crucifixion on the cross.  It’s the day Christ gave the ultimate sacrifice of His life for our sins. It’s the day when wrath and mercy meet at the cross.

Why Easter is My Favorite Holiday

What would it have been like to pray with Jesus in the garden? To watch as Christ was led to his death? To enter the empty tomb and find just a few discarded rags? Suddenly those images aren’t just events in history but live action scenes in my heart. I’m reminded that Jesus lived in the real world, died a real death, and really did come back to life.

As I reflect on the most significant three days in history, I realize Easter is my favorite holiday. Why? Easter means that we have a Friend, a Father, and a Savior.

A Friend, Father, and a Savior

He is my Friend

Jesus, a thirty-three year old carpenter prayerfully wept in a dark Garden of Gethsemane. He must have been desperate for His disciples to stay close and pray with him through the night as he faced death. Instead, they fell asleep.  I’m reassured that I am not alone and reminded that Jesus now lives to intercede on my behalf according to Hebrews 7:25. He keeps watch over me. He is my Friend.

He is my Father

Behind the long night in the garden, the unjust death sentence and the climb up Golgotha to the cross, Jesus faced the unthinkable and died for the sins of the world. I’m reminded that Jesus gave His life for me and I can have peace because Deuteronomy 31:6 promises He will never leave or forsake me. He is my Father.

He is my Savior

I remember the One who left heaven for one reason, to bring redemption so that no one should perish. Yes, every one of us will face death. But Easter means Jesus paid it all. Death no longer has a sting—it’s just the beginning. He lives and He is my Savior!

Reflect on Christ’s death and resurrection on your behalf. Because of His sacrifice, you too can have a Friend, a Father, and a Savior who is Jesus Christ our Lord! From your friends at Nebraska Family Alliance, we wish you a Joyous Easter as you celebrate the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.


“This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn’t go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again” ~John 3:16-17 (The Message Version)

Karen Bowling

Karen Bowling

Executive Director
When Karen isn't fulfilling her duties as the Executive Director of NFA, leading a women's Bible study, or coordinating a prayer meeting, she's usually with her five grandchildren that keep her busy, laughing, and young at heart.