Newsletter: Wishing You a Happy Easter

Statement

Dear Friends,

I don't think I can improve on last year's Easter newsletter, so I am sharing those words again. This year the Christian Good Friday coincides with the beginning of Jewish Passover, which continues for eight days through April 11.

Every year, on Easter, Christians gather with friends and family to celebrate a tradition that spans 2,000 years; we recognize a divine act of love that inspires millions of Americans and billions of people around the world; and we humbly accept a gift from God that is not only the foundation of Christianity, but whose symbol of sacrifice and rebirth is a reminder to people of all faiths that Providence has bestowed countless gifts upon us.

This Sunday, I will be celebrating Easter with my children and my wife, Becca, at her family's home. We will be reflecting on the many blessings we enjoy and honoring the significance of this amazing day. Although it's easy to dismiss the commercialized aspects of the Easter season, we must always remember that what makes Easter special is a unique and supreme sacrifice -- the sacrifice of our Lord and Savior and the joy of His resurrection.

A similar tradition of sacrifice and gratitude runs through the Jewish Passover as well. While we live in a diverse nation, I am always impressed by the fact we are united, as Americans, in our respect and tolerance for the many faiths that make up our great country.

We are truly blessed to live in a nation that honors freedom of religion. Indeed, it's one of the foundational principles of our country. Every person -- in America and throughout the world -- has a basic human right to practice their faith without fear of government interference. That right has been cherished throughout American history, and we must never take it for granted.

As Christians remember the sacrifice of the Son of God, we must never forget those brave men and women who are sacrificing for us on the frontlines of freedom. Please take time this weekend to reflect on our heroes in uniform who are risking their lives to protect us, far from their families. And never forget those heroes who have given their lives in the service of our nation.

"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13

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