EASTER IS COMING SOON!

Easter is only a few weeks away.  Easter, like many of our special Christian holidays, has unfortunately been reduced by some to be nothing more than a day for chocolate bunnies, colored eggs and green cellophane grass.  No, I'm  not one of those suggesting we remove all these "extra" components of the season.  They can add a sense of fun and excitement, especially for children.  My hope is not to remove any of these, but to reclaim and put at the forefront what matters most about the event we call Easter.  Let's remember what Easter really is!

EASTER IS...

Azaleas exploding in blooms of red, purple and pink...

BUT...blossoms whither and die!

Dogwoods lining the streets of Duluth with beauty and splendor...

BUT...dogwoods soon surrender their pedals to the wind!

Colored eggs and chocolate bunnies...

BUT...they are soon devoured and forgotten!

Fancy dresses in pastel colors...

BUT...they become worn out and frayed with age!

Baskets and green cellophane grass...

BUT...soon they become empty with nothing to show.

Family gatherings in the backyard filled with smiles and laughter...

BUT...then everyone goes their own way.

Jelly beans, marshmallow chicks and candy surprises...

BUT...by the end of the day they are mostly forgotten.

Proclaiming that Jesus Christ rose from the dead...

BUT...BUT NOTHING!  HE IS ALIVE FOREVERMORE!  WHILE EVERHTHING ELSE MAY FADE AWAY, CHRIST ENDURES!

THAT...IS WHAT EASTER IS ABOUT!