Why is Easter so overshadowed by Christmas?

on Apr 4, 2026

From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: It seems to me that Easter is greatly overshadowed by Christmas and that people are not as prone to celebrate Jesus at Easter as they are at Christmas. One of my friends said it was easier to accept the birth of a little baby as a gift to the world than a Jesus who died at the hands of people. – C.E.

A: Millions of Americans are confused, discouraged, cynical, frightened, and disillusioned. Each day seems to compound problems.

In the midst of upheaval and crisis and difficulty and problems and fear comes the message of the cross. Often heard only at Easter, the message is often overshadowed with celebrations of springtime, spring breaks, and springing into longer days filled with sunshine, sand, and beach parties. Yet the world still cries out for something more as they long for peace.

Where is the Prince of Peace in a world filled with so much trouble? The message of the cross answers this question with relevance and reassurance and follows the great miracle of the Baby born at Christmastime. For Christmas to have meaning, the holiday cannot be separated from Easter – when Jesus Christ went to the cross. He died for the sins of the world, and then He rose again to give everlasting life to those who would humble themselves before the Lord in repentance and receive Him as Lord and Savior.

The angel said at the birth of Jesus, “He will save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21, NKJV). Jesus Himself said, speaking just before His death, “For this cause was I born” (John 18:37). He was the only person in history who was born with the purpose of dying. The Apostle Paul, years later, said, “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” (1 Timothy 1:15). By His death and resurrection, He can transform both individuals and society.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)