As we prepared our hearts to worship on Easter Sunday, one of the pastors at my church made the statement, “The only day our celebration should exceed Easter is when Jesus comes back.” That really opened some doors in my heart. I had never viewed Easter as a raucous celebration, whether because I was raised to dress up on Easter, or because it’s usually a serious time. But I loved that idea. We are not just honoring Jesus. Not just saying thanks. We are celebrating the greatest event in human history, only to possibly be eclipsed by the return of Christ. Amazing!
So how are you celebrating?
Todd
Until I read this, I never really thought about how lackluster the Easter services were when I was growing up or even those in my recent adult years. You’re right – it was a time (in my youth) to dress up, be very prim and formal about the whole occasion, etc.
This year was different. We are back at a church we were members of years ago and the service was alive, vibrant, celebratory … it was even stated many times it was a day to be happy, excited, and so on. The energy in the sanctuary was electric!
Easter isn’t something to celebrate only once a year…we need to be celebrating Jesus’ resurrection EVERY day! We presented a musical called Run To The Cross on Easter Sunday morning…it was a blessing to be involved in.
PJ
btw…so excited for you to get to meet my ministers next Sunday!
C U @ New Hope FBC! 🙂
I’m celebrating Easter every day, just like PJ said, by being mindful and thankful for the cross and the extravagant price Jesus paid for me; by being aware of the glory of God all around me, in nature, in people, in events and circumstances; by giving and receiving love, and learning how to love others well; by submitting myself to God’s power to revive the dead, broken parts of me; by offering help and sharing hope with others who are dead and broken; and by joyful anticipation of His coming back for me–dancing now to practice for the great celebration party to come!
Easter has long been my favorite holiday; it doesn’t come with as much commercialism as Christmas, but it’s the same story. Oh, I love Christmas too, don’t get me wrong. Easter is a time to celebrate; isn’t it Good Friday that lends itself to more somber thoughts and reflections? Praying for you Todd, yeah, still. You take care of you, and you take care of yours. Isn’t God amazing!!!