I’ve heard Lutherans referred to as “Easter People,” but what exactly does that mean for us who care passionately for those who are hungry? Have you wondered that yourself?
Here’s my take on it—and only mine, not that of some theologian I might have read or studied. I dare to put my words here because I think we are all theologians; we all read the scriptures again and again, talk with others, and ponder meanings. Sometimes those ponderings help us understand things better but often leave us with more questions. Such is the nature of theology and the workings of the Holy Spirit.
Today I understand “Easter People” to mean that we are followers of the Risen Jesus, the one who conquered sin and death. That Jesus is the one who leads us into new life through his resurrection. We are “Easter People” because we live in that promise and in the Reign (or Kingdom) of God here on earth now and after our own deaths, too.
Today I understand God as the creator of all, the lover of all, and one who wishes all to be in relationship with God and with each other. New life for me means that the Holy Spirit works through me—and you—to bring to others new life, that new way of living in the reign of God. I dare to think that the work that I do, in both small and larger ways, to help bring an end to hunger in God’s world is part of that way of new life.
“Easter People” are those who, alone and together, here and now, reflect God’s love by helping to bring healing and wholeness. Yes, I think Lutherans are “Easter People.” How about you? Are you ready to claim and live into that name?
