“He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’ Then they remembered his words.” – Luke 24:6-8

On April 5, families across Missouri and across the nation gathered to celebrate Easter — the Holiest day in the Christian faith. It’s a day filled with joy and hope as we remember not only the life of our savior, Jesus Christ, but His sacrifice for our salvation. Easter reminds us that death is not the end, but through Christ, the beginning of life everlasting.

Between the family gatherings and Easter egg hunts, I remember that Easter is a call to the faithful to honor Christ’s ultimate sacrifice and live every day with the renewal that His resurrection offers. When we reflect on that first Easter morning — at first, the fear and confusion, and then the incredible news that Jesus had risen from the tomb — we are reminded to have courage even when the future seems uncertain.

Our government buildings, our currency, and the Pledge of Allegiance affirm the United States as “One Nation Under God,” and it always will be. As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, it’s as important as ever to remember and honor the principles that built this country.

My faith has always been important to me and has served as a guide for my work representing Southeast and South Central Missouri in Washington. Growing up as the son of a preacher, I learned early the significance of standing firm in what you believe, including and especially when it isn’t easy. That same faith led me on my trip to Israel when I was first elected to Congress where I had the privilege of being re-baptized in the Jordan River, where the Messiah Himself was baptized by John the Baptist. That moment in the Holy Land was one of the most spiritually profound experiences of my life and vastly deepened my connection with Christ.

Easter Sunday reminds us that faith calls us to action and to carry forward Christ’s message of hope by living lives of love, conviction, and service. Whether supporting our families, serving our communities, or standing for our shared values, Easter provides a powerful reminder that through faith and devotion, we can overcome challenges and bring light to darkness.

I hope and pray that as you gathered with family and friends on this sacred day, the promise of new life filled your hearts with peace and hope. He is Risen, and because of that, we can face each day with renewed purpose.