Uh, what just happened here?

Ever heard that line in a television show or movie? Some situation just about bypassed a person on the outside of a relationship.

In an attempt to prevent further exclusion and regain standing, the person asks the question. Or someone behaves in an unexpected way, such that the others around wonder what prompted the response.

When Judas Iscariot tried to refund the bribe, did the religious authorities ask that question after he threw the money back in and left the room?

Regarding the historic events of the weekend just past, I wonder if any of the first disciples asked that question.

They knew what they saw. The one they trusted was clearly dead, yet now some of them are saying that they saw him. Or at the very least, he was not where they expected him to be.

When two walked with a stranger back to Emmaus, and at the table, the moment they recognized him, he disappeared. They all but did ask, and they realized before the words could come out.

It is not unreasonable for us to ask the same question today. What made the day remarkable and worth celebrating (besides the snow)? Were the day’s differences important to the reason for the day?

What happened was the Jesus of Nazareth that some believed was Messiah was wrongly accused of lying in a very serious matter.

In a contrived power play in a time and place known for disorder, Evil pushed people to do wrong as a matter of convenience and prevention. Jesus was executed as a criminal and a traitor, and he died.

After enough time to assure Jesus’ death, the Ultimate Judge, God, overturned the human decision. The purpose for his death was fulfilled, and to further show that he was who he said, God raised him to life.

God’s agent of salvation died for the sin of the world. With that sin paid, death’s power was overcome in God’s love.

God gained nothing by saving us. God did it because WE are made for eternity and relationship, but sin and death prevents that. Love — the love of God — overcame sin and makes a way for abundant life.

It is difficult to find happiness in Good Friday. We understand that Jesus surrendered to Evil when he gave himself for the world.

With that fact in place, it is difficult not to find joy in Easter morning. The world’s worst was no surprise to God, who used it to change history, and to offer humanity a way to peace and life.

The story began on that first day of the week, and it still is unfolding, week by week and life by life.

So, if you are asking the question, the people in the churches of this community invite you to conversation. History says what happened. Come find out why.