When we celebrate Easter - especially the Resurrection - we can easily be bogged down by discussions of whether or not it really happened and by the theology that it produces. But when we look at the early days of the church, especially in the Book of Acts, we see a different approach and perspective to the Resurrection. Having been witnesses to its reality, the Resurrection served to bring them cohesion and unity as followers of Jesus in a hostile environment, it gave them courage to engage in meaningful conversations with others, and it astonished them - not that it happened, but that now all people, everywhere were equally offered reconciliation to God through Christ. The Resurrection had impact in the immediate moment on their understanding of faith and fellowship. That's why Luke refers to it more frequently than any other biblical author! He is risen; He is risen indeed!
