Easter week. For a Christian, such a meaningful, powerful and, as well, an exciting week. It might be the highlight of the year. Without a doubt, some of my best memories from the years when my children were little include celebrating Easter. We always traveled to my parents…and, now that they are both in Heaven, those memories are even more precious. The food (always so much food!), the matching outfits, the egg hunts, and even Easter pinatas were all so much fun. And I have nothing against any of those things. But, of course, the real joy of Easter is the resurrection.
I have often found myself feeling almost apprehensive on the way to church on Easter morning. Easter sermons can be difficult. They always include some rehearsing of the crucifixion and, quite honestly, it often makes my stomach hurt. Oh….but after the crucifixion comes the resurrection! The victory over death. The defeat of sin. Jesus’ glorious return to life! And to think that He did it all for me is humbling, overwhelming and gives me such a reason to rejoice!
In all the busyness of this week and amid all the preparations for fun, quiet your heart and focus your attention on the cross. All that had to happen there to pay for our sins. But don’t stop there….remember the resurrection. The empty tomb and the fulfillment of all God’s plans and promises for redemption. If you’ve not yet accepted this gift of salvation – made possible because of the cross – what a wonderful time to do so…..as Easter! Have a blessed and happy Easter!!
When I Survey the Wondrous Cross by Issac Watts
When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss,
And pour contempt on all my pride.
Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast,
Save in the death of Christ my God!
All the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them to His blood.
See from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down!
Did e’er such love and sorrow meet,
Or thorns compose so rich a crown?
Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were a present far too small;
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life, my all.
Thank you for sharing this beautiful hymn, and the invitation to pause again at the foot of the cross. I can barely comprehend even a touch of the love He offered for me, and yet He does invite me in to that mercy. How amazing He is. What a glorious life we have been given, full of HIS resurrection power. May I rejoice along with you this week! He is alive!
Oh, yes, so many good memories from when my kids were young! So much food at my parents’ house too. You are right of course, the real joy of Easter is the Resurrection. Thank you for the reminder!