Easter stirs many memories. Throughout my childhood and early 20's I spent each Easter in my parents' small hometown in WV. Easter was one holiday I could count on when I would see my aunts, uncles, grandparents, and cousins. All the sleeveless Easter dresses teased me as I longed for spring, but knew in WV it was likely to snow. After a weekend of catching up with extended family, my mom's side of the family would all join at the country chapel for the sunrise service. No sunrise service was complete without the choreographed puppet show to the tune of "Up to the Grave He Arose." My uncle, Bob, would lead the men in preparing a pancake and sausage breakfast, complete with his famous sausage gravy. Then we would travel into town to go to church with my Grandma Dolores, my dad's mom. She was always glowing on Easter. The members of her church called her "the greeter." She knew everyone. If many of us were there she would proudly stand to announce our presence with tears in her eyes. Later in the service she would join the choir, ringing her handbells to "Christ the Lord is Risen Today." Then we would go back to her house for Easter dinner. I know she is passionately playing those handbells in heaven today.
The past several Easters have been different, one in my hometown, one at my Grandpa's country church, and another in CA, yet the meaning doesn't change. This year I am in Tanzania. Today I showed my first graders a simple, animated video of the Last Supper, prayer in the garden, crucifixion, and resurrection. Many of them had tears in their eyes. They have repeatedly heard what Jesus endured and why he died, yet it's fresh to them. God frequently speaks to me through their voices.
As you celebrate Easter this year, take time to stop and put traditions aside, or at least consider the meaning behind them. Jesus suffered greatly and died for you. You are clean and live in freedom from your sins if you have trusted him. Live for him.
Last week we learned of two girls in need of a home. Irene's and Ruki's parents abondoned them when Ruki was just an infant. Irene recently turned 5 years old and has been caring for 2 year old Ruki. Tomorrow we hope to welcome them to our Rafiki family. They are in need of medical care. Pray for them to adjust quickly and respond to the medical care.
What a perfect picture of Easter. Jesus died so that the lost could be found.
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