Today, nearly 1 in 3 American young adults (29%) identify as “nones” (or religiously unaffiliated). During holidays when churches experience an influx of visitors, many of these nones are often in attendance. Easter is one of those holidays.

For young adults who rarely attend church, participating in a service with their families may be an item on their holiday checklists. However, the reason for celebrating Easter often gets lost in the commercialized experiences of preparing baskets and hunting for eggs.

Cheerful images of bunny rabbits and baby chicks can lure us away from the grim realities of upheaval in the world — from the continuing conflict in Ukraine to the ongoing Israel and Hamas war.

The stark realities of one’s personal life (whether it’s financial dismay, shattered dreams, or mounting anxiety) could lead these religious nones to question the validity of the Bible and the Easter story.

So, how is the Bible (and Easter) relevant for young adults today?

There are various ways Christ’s death and resurrection can encourage us (and our young adults) this Easter.

Jesus Understands Our Pain

Many of us (including young adults) have encountered moments of betrayal from a friend, a negative health diagnosis, the loss of a loved one, or the rejection of a dream.

Because of His humanity, Christ empathizes with our emotional and physical suffering. Jesus was betrayed and denied by His closest friends — the disciples. Judas handed Jesus over to be crucified for money (Luke 22). Peter denied knowing Jesus three times in a courtyard (Luke 22:54–62). And Jesus was rejected by His community (Matthew 13:57).

Peace comes from knowing Jesus triumphs over everything we are about to encounter.

Christ didn’t escape physical suffering, either. Jesus was flogged, mocked, spit on, struck on the head, and nailed to a cross (Matthew 27:30–31). By coming to earth, Jesus demonstrated His great love for us — a love so great He died for our wrongdoings (John 3:16).

So, when young adults face adversity and anguish, we can remind them of the comfort in knowing there is a Savior who had similar trials and walks alongside them on life’s journey.

Jesus Gives Us Purpose

The one question I get most frequently from college-aged young adults is “How do I discover my purpose in life?” Research shows more than half (53%) of Gen Z adults have felt unsure about who they are supposed to be at least once in the past year.

Because of His resurrection, Jesus gives young adults purpose for their lives. If Jesus had died on the cross and hadn’t conquered death, all their hope and trust in God would have been in vain. Yet, through His resurrection, Jesus gave them a future.

Their purpose is found in pursuing a relationship with God. It’s through living a life that exemplifies Jesus and sharing the good news — the Easter story. When their purpose is found in Jesus, people’s lives are changed. They strive to follow Jesus’ example of humility, love and compassion (Philippians 2:1–11).

Ultimately, when young adults find their purpose in Jesus, communities are transformed. They put others first, stand against oppression, and care for the marginalized.

Jesus Provides Hope for the Future

From the pandemic to inflation, racial injustices to global conflicts, the traumas of the last few years are weighing heavily on Americans. The younger generation (18 to 34-year-olds) reports higher stress levels than older generations, according to an American Psychiatric Association survey.

The resurrection of Jesus provides hope for the future. John 16:33 says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Peace comes from knowing Jesus triumphs over everything we are about to encounter. When young adults put their trust in the One who conquered death, it gives them reassurance for what is to come. They can pass through the difficult challenges that come their way by trusting and knowing God is in control.

The Resurrection fulfilled the promise for a future after death (John 14:3–4). It’s a promise of what is to come. Life doesn’t end at death; it’s just the beginning. And it’s a promise of seeing lost loved ones again.

For young adults who experience suffering and pain, there is a Savior who identifies with them. For those searching for a purpose, there is a God who wants a personal relationship with them. And for those young adults experiencing fear and anxiety, there is peace and hope for the future.

So, yes, Easter is still relevant today. And Christ is alive, with us until the end of the age, giving us hope for tomorrow.