Easter Sunrise Service w/ JWLKRS Worship & Z88.3 Radio – SeaWorld Orlando, FL – April 20, 2025

4.9/5

Written by: Mike Laxton (April 20, 2025)

Every year, we’ve heard about the Easter Sunrise Service at SeaWorld Orlando — hosted by our friends at Z88.3 — but for one reason or another, we’ve never been able to make it out. This year, that changed… and I can honestly say, I’m so glad it did.

As the early morning light crept across the horizon, people began to fill the stadium seats — families, church groups, and individuals all gathering for one purpose: to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ in a uniquely powerful setting.

Worship That Moved the Soul

Thanks to a friend’s recommendation, we were finally able to see JWLKRS Worship live for the first time — and wow. Their presence, energy, and authenticity ushered in a powerful time of praise. From “I Thank God” to “Gratitude” and “Firm Foundation,” they led with hearts wide open. It didn’t feel like a performance — it felt like a collective outpouring of worship.

As the music swelled and hands lifted across the stadium, you could feel a unity in spirit. Watching the sun rise while singing “So I throw up my hands and praise You again and again…” was one of those moments where time almost stops — and you’re just there, present and in awe of what the resurrection means.

The Message That Stuck With Me

Pastor Matt Heard shared a message that took an unexpected but memorable turn — and for me, this was the moment that stayed with me the most.

He opened with a story from his college days, when he’d taken time to study French and was eager to put his skills to the test on a trip to Paris. But what he thought would be a moment of fluency quickly turned into a humbling reminder of just how much he didn’t know. That story, humorous and human, was a setup for something deeper: a reflection on our need for understanding and connection, which he tied beautifully to the story of the woman at the well in John 4.

Pastor Heard reminded us that Jesus didn’t just offer living water — He is the living water. An overflowing, never-ending source poured out for each of us. It was a powerful reminder that Jesus meets us in our thirst, in our questions, in our confusion — and offers Himself fully.

That visual of overflowing living water, especially tied to such a relatable personal story, hit me in a fresh way. On Resurrection Sunday, that message of renewal, hope, and the fullness of Christ stuck with me — and I’m still reflecting on it days later.

Quick Connections & Great Seats

Before the service began, I had the chance to briefly reconnect with my friend Tim Wolf from Z88.3 / Hot 95.9. Though our conversation was short — he had plenty of responsibilities that morning — he was kind enough to help us find some truly great seats. And let me tell you, those seats made a huge difference in being able to take in the full worship experience.

We also crossed paths with a few other fellow content creators and believers — all of us grateful to be in a space where worship, community, and Christ were front and center.

A Sunrise I’ll Never Forget

There’s something sacred about praising Jesus as the sun rises. As the crowd sang “I ran out of that grave!” during “Glorious Day,” it felt like a celebration — not just of Easter morning, but of new beginnings, hope renewed, and the unstoppable power of Jesus.

This wasn’t just another event to attend or vlog about. It was a moment of encounter. From the vibrant worship to the heartfelt message, to the people we shared it with — this Easter Sunrise Service left an impression I won’t soon forget.

If you’ve ever thought about going but haven’t yet made it out, let this be your sign. Wake up early. Show up with an open heart. Experience the joy of Resurrection morning at SeaWorld.

I know we’ll be back next year.

He is risen. He is risen indeed.