God is not the victim only, but the victor. The joy of Easter is overwhelming to those who experience the dreadful despair of Good Friday. The resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ on Easter is powerful to those who have seen his powerlessness on Good Friday. The happy ending of Easter is gracious indeed to those who grieve his ignominious death on Good Friday. Justice might say that it is, but the grace of God says that it isn't.
Easter is for everybody, regardless of anyone's past faithfulness or unfaithfulness.
Easter is for the disciples who ran away when Jesus was arrested. It is also for those who decided the Galveston beach was preferable to a Good Friday service of worship. It is for those who chose movies and other forms of entertainment rather than a quiet, tearful vigil in a bare and darkened nave. It is for those who wish for happiness without struggle, joy without pain, victory without anguish, love without commitment. P eople love happy endings.