Easter lays an egg when it begins to focus on rabbits and baskets. That stuff is part of the “dead Jesus complex” (dJc).

The first disciples’ encounters with the risen Jesus were accompanied by “great joy.” Perhaps “little joy” is a sign of the “dead Jesus complex.”

The risen Jesus didn’t need a church service. However, He did show up when His disciples went fishing and personally led a fish fry.

When you first encounter the resurrected Jesus, like His followers at the empty the tomb, you will be, “trembling and bewildered.” The risen Jesus told His disciples to proclaim “repentance for the forgiveness of sins,” not prosperity and happiness formulas. He told His disciples to wait for supernatural power. (If they needed it, surely you and I do.)

The risen Jesus taught His disciples about “the kingdom of God.” Maybe all Christ-followers need to focus on God’s kingdom.

As some women left Jesus’ empty tomb, the Bible says, “Suddenly Jesus met them. ‘Greetings,’ He said.” Dead man talking! When the women told the apostles about the resurrection, “they did not believe the women because their words seemed to them like nonsense.” Later, the risen Jesus “opened their (the apostles) minds so they could understand the Scriptures.” Why not ask Him to open yours?

If we look for Jesus in ceremonies, perhaps we need to hear what an angel said at the empty tomb: “He is not here; He has risen.” The angel also said: “He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you.” Look ahead, not behind, and follow the living Jesus.

When Thomas saw the resurrected Jesus, he said: “My Lord & My God!” (Just in case you’re wondering who Jesus is.)

Here are powerful words spoken by the risen Jesus: “I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” I’m so glad I get to interact with Him.

On Resurrection Day, people worshiped the resurrected Jesus. You can, too — right now, right where you are. Why not?