I live in a country where mainly Muslims live. When I was very young, my wife and I moved to a town where we started a church. By the grace of God, the church has grown to 300 members, almost all of whom come from a Muslim background.
As a pastor of the church, I have experienced persecution and suffering many times. It's something that comes with following Jesus and following God's call, I think. - Especially when you want to reach Muslims with the gospel.
Every year we celebrate Easter in our homes and we also celebrate Easter in church. For me, the message of Easter is an uplifting message that strengthens my faith, my hope and my love for God. Because nothing is greater than the resurrection of Christ and the saving message of the Gospel.
But also the suffering of Jesus, his walk up to Calvary and the suffering on the cross are important to me.
I 2. Corinthians 1:5 states: "For just as the sufferings of Christ come to us in full measure, so also the comfort that Christ gives comes to us in full measure."
I know this comfort and care in times of trouble! Because God is near when the suffering of Christ comes to us in abundance. Both when people are angry, threaten, discriminate or physically hurt us. But also in sickness and when you are just having a hard time. - Yes, I also experience the comfort that Christ gives in abundance.
So, as we celebrate Christ's resurrection at Easter, his suffering also gives me comfort, hope and meaning.