The Stillness Before Sunrise: Finding Easter Hope in the Waiting

Daily Devotion – April 17, 2025

“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings as eagles;
they shall run, and not be weary;
and they shall walk, and not faint.” – Isaiah 40:31 (KJV)

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In the Shadow of the Empty Tomb

We stand in the glorious season of Easter, where the crushing darkness of the cross yielded to the radiant dawn of the empty tomb. It's a time of profound renewal—where hope is resurrected, and the promises of God find their resounding "yes" in Jesus.

Yet even in this victorious season, many of us are still waiting.

Waiting for healing’s touch.
For breakthrough in our finances.
For clarity of purpose.
For the deep peace our hearts long for.

Let us not forget the disciples. The triumphant cries of Palm Sunday dissolved into the agony of Good Friday, followed by the heavy, silent void of Saturday. Imagine their emotions—the dashed hopes, the gnawing uncertainty, the seeming finality of loss.

But Sunday came. And with it, the earth-shattering reality of the resurrection.

Waiting is not abandonment. It is often the sacred space where God works most profoundly—preparing a glory we cannot yet fathom, just as He did that first Easter morning.

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Resurrection Power in Our Present Waiting

Isaiah 40:31 assures us that as we wait on the Lord, our strength is not depleted—it is miraculously renewed. Easter reminds us that this isn’t just about enduring hardship—it’s about rising in resurrection power.

The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the grave (Romans 8:11) lives in us today, giving us the strength to rise above anxiety, doubt, and despair. This power brings peace that quiets the soul, faith that steadies the heart, and courage to take the next small step, even when the path ahead is unclear.

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A Prayer for Renewed Hope

Risen Savior, I thank You for the unshakeable hope of Easter.
Even when I feel trapped in the “Saturday” of my own story—
waiting, wondering, unsure—remind me that the dawn is coming.
Teach me to lean into Your presence in the quiet,
to trust that resurrection is always on the horizon.
Fill me with Your strength today. In Your name, Amen.

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Today’s Reflection

This Easter season, as lilies bloom and victory songs rise, take a quiet moment.

Where in your life are you waiting?

How can the unwavering hope of the resurrection reshape how you see this season?

What small step of trust can you take today, believing that your “Sunday” is coming?

Breathe. Be still. And let God whisper to your soul:

“I am working. I am not done with you yet.”