Clay in the Hands

He is risen indeed.  Yesterday was Easter Sunday – a day we celebrate as Jesus followers as the day Jesus rose from the dead, conquering death.  Through the years, many traditions have been added to Easter.  Don’t get me wrong, I love the whole Easter egg hunt and bunny thing.  In fact, there are remnants of it still alive in our home; even with my kids being older – they still get candy and small gifts on Easter Sunday.  But now, instead of having to go look for it, we just put it in a sack and have it ready for them first thing Sunday morning.

Sometimes, the true message of Easter can get lost.  I heard a story this past week about a church here in our area that had a time during their morning service in which the children came to the front of the auditorium for a “children’s sermon.”  During that time, the pastor asked the question, “What is the meaning of Easter.”  Now, I have done my share of children’s sermons and one thing I know is that if you ask a question, you have to be prepared for anything.  One little boy’s hand shot up and so the pastor asked, “What do you think?”  The little boy said, “This is the day we remember when Jesus killed the Easter bunny and spread his blood on the doorpost.”

I have no idea how the pastor handled that situation, but I am going to guess that it took some time to regain composure and move forward in the service.  Obviously, this little boy had combined several stories into one.  As humorous as that story is for us, the message is clear.  Often, the true meaning of Easter is lost in the season.

Regardless of how we choose to celebrate the season, we can never forget the real meaning – resurrection!  Jesus defeated sin and death.  He died the day before the Sabbath and was buried.  But on the day after the Sabbath, he came back to life.  He was dead – but now he lives!  That is the significance of Easter.

Today, I want to challenge you to rise up as well.  If you are a follower in the Way, then you know that your life is being transformed by the renewing of your mind.  God is at work in you.  You are equipped to serve in ways that only you can serve.  It is time to rise up and make a difference.  Rise up and show those around you the difference that Jesus has made in your life.

Be a blessing today!