Easter is a time of reflection and celebration, a period when the profound theme of integrity takes center stage, echoing the Trinitarian work of salvation. Integrity, a term that embodies incorruptibility, soundness, and completeness, reflects not only God's nature but also the essence of the resurrection story that is commemorated.

Consider the blessedness of contemplating the poor, as Psalm 41 suggests, and the assurance of deliverance and protection it promises. This psalm also touches on the sting of betrayal and the plea for grace, mirroring the events that led to Christ's crucifixion and subsequent resurrection.

The Gospel of Mark presents the resurrection as a promise fulfilled. An angel at the tomb announced to the women that Jesus had risen and would meet His disciples in Galilee, a promise Jesus Himself had foretold. Despite initial fear and misunderstanding, the resurrection stood as a testament to Christ's integrity.

Mary Magdalene, Salome, and Mary, the mother of James, were the first to receive the astonishing news of Jesus' resurrection. Their silence, stemming from awe and fear, eventually transformed into proclamation. Mary Magdalene, once tormented by demons and healed by Christ, was the first to see the risen Lord, a powerful testament to the personal nature of Christ's redemption.

The appearances of the risen Christ to His disciples, including Peter and Thomas, were moments of restoration and affirmation of their faith. Jesus' integrity was imparted to them, filling the gaps of their own brokenness and doubts. The shared meals with Jesus, such as the one on the road to Emmaus and the breakfast in Galilee, further confirmed the reality of His resurrection.

The Great Commission, given by Jesus before His ascension, marked the beginning of the apostolic age. It was not just a historical mandate but a continual call for all believers to engage in the mission of sharing the gospel, supported by the Holy Spirit's guidance and empowerment.

When the concept of integrity is applied to personal lives, it is recognized that baptism forms a link to Christ. Despite brokenness and life's challenges, Christ restores wholeness. His resurrection assures that integrity is upheld by His righteousness, and there is a call to live with the confidence of being resurrected to be one with Christ.

The resurrection of Christ is a powerful affirmation of God's integrity, where His promises are fulfilled, and His word is proven trustworthy. As believers, trust in the promises of God is essential, even when faith is challenged, knowing that His word will never fail.

Mary Magdalene's encounter with the risen Christ reminds us that Jesus meets in brokenness and calls by name. This personal relationship with the Savior is the cornerstone of faith, empowering us to share the good news with others.

The restoration of Peter's integrity after his denial of Christ demonstrates the redemptive power of Jesus' resurrection. Failures and sins are not the end of the story; through Christ, wholeness is achieved, and integrity is restored.

The Great Commission is a continual call for all believers to share the gospel. Active participation in spreading the message of salvation to all nations is essential, relying on the Holy Spirit for guidance and empowerment.

Personal integrity is not based on perfection but on Christ's completeness. In moments of doubt and brokenness, solace is found in the fact that Christ's integrity covers, and through Him, completeness is attained. This assurance enables facing life's challenges with hope and confidence.