Liturgically in the Christian calendar, Ash Wednesday begins Lent, a 40-day time for reflection, penitence and perhaps fasting. This period of time is followed by Palm Sunday, a time to remember Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem.  His teachings had stirred a following of many, who believed Him to be the Messiah. THEN, Holy Week brings the shared Passover meal for Jesus and His disciples, reclining at the prepared table and remembering their Jewish forefather’s exodus out of Egypt. Following would be the betrayal, Jesus’ crucifixion, death and burial.  Days later, as was the custom, the women approached the burial tomb to tend to His body, but the stone had been rolled away and He was no longer in the tomb.

Alleluia! Jesus is risen!  He is risen indeed!  The prophecies were fulfilled.  His truths were confirmed. He was/is the Son of God.  Messiah.  Savior.  What a powerful journey from Lent to Resurrection!

Spring, new growth, butterflies, symbols, traditions, palm crosses, chocolate eggs, bunnies, family dinners, lilies, the season is alive! It is most imperative that we understand CHRIST is alive.  He is risen! Hallelujah! Meals can be shared.  Flowers admired. Egg hunts held.  Traditions carried on, but the Good News is Jesus Christ is risen. He lives.  As Alfred Ackley’s hymn, He Lives, reminds us, “…He walks with me and he talks with me along life’s narrow way, He lives…He lives within my heart!”

May the joy of our risen Lord rise within your being.  He rose from the dead, that you may have life and have it abundantly. His love is unconditional.  His pain, suffering and death were for YOU! Jesus Christ is risen today. Alleluia!

Be blessed!  Happy Easter ~

Jill