Easter: A letter from Rich Stearns to his fellow brothers and sisters in Christ

Rich Stearns, president of World Vision in the United States, prays with a family in Uganda.
© 2006 Jon Warren/World Vision

Christ asked a compelling and pointed question to Martha that day, just before He brought her brother Lazarus back from the dead. This was not only for Martha — it was for all of us. Christ's primary mission was to die on the cross, conquer sin and death by rising from the dead, and save the world from eternal separation from God.

Do we fully believe this and live into the incredible promises given to us in scripture?

The dictionary defines "belief" as follows: "to have a firm conviction as to the goodness, efficacy, or ability of something." This firm conviction should compel us into action — action that is evidence of a living faith in these promises.

"Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock." —Matthew 7:24-25 (NIV)

We can be certain that God will equip us with the things that we need to make a stand for him. Things like our salvation, the body of Christ, and most importantly, His word and His Holy Spirit to guide us (Ephesians 6:10-20, NIV). What a powerful arsenal we have at our fingertips to do His work.

This Easter, remember what Christ accomplished for each of us. Celebrate Easter, knowing that His purposes will be fulfilled and that we will someday be reunited with Christ in heaven and in our resurrected bodies. God bless you this Easter and renew your hope every day.

Rich Stearns
President, World Vision U.S.

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