Obama: Easter a time for reflection, renewal

President Obama departed from politics Saturday to reflect on Easter as “a story of hope – a belief in a better day to come, just around the bend.”

“These holy days have their roots in miracles that took place long ago. And yet, they still inspire us, guide us, and strengthen us today,” Obama said in his weekly address, as millions around the world prepare to worship and celebrate on Easter Sunday. 

{mosads}“We remember the grace of an awesome God, who loves us so deeply that He gave us his only Son, so that we might live through Him. We recall all that Jesus endured for us – the scorn of the crowds, the agony of the cross – all so that we might be forgiven our sins and granted everlasting life.”

Obama, who plans to celebrate Easter with first lady Michelle Obama and daughters Malia and Sasha on Sunday, also marked the importance of the holidays for other faiths and beliefs. On Tuesday, the White House held a Seder in the Old Family Dining Room to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Passover.

“The common thread of humanity that connects us all – not just Christians and Jews, but Muslims and Hindus and Sikhs – is our shared commitment to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. To remember, I am my brother’s keeper. I am my sister’s keeper,” the president said. “Whatever your faith, believer or nonbeliever, there’s no better time to rededicate ourselves to that universal mission.”

Obama and his family don’t have any public scheduled events this weekend, but on Monday will host the White House Easter Egg Roll.