I came across this article in a Crosswalk newsletter and thought it was worth sharing:

Many of us have wonderful memories of Easter morning, which includes baskets full of chocolate, egg hunts, and new dresses for church. Those traditions are fun and can build fond memories. But what about the real event we are celebrating? Do our children even know why we have a day called Easter?

Have you ever wondered why we don’t approach Easter the same way we prepare for Christmas? Decorating our homes, buying presents and travelling to see family.

Easter gets one day, with an overload of sugar and fridge full of multi-coloured eggs!

Now, I’ll admit, part of me is glad we haven’t turned this holiday into such an expensive, elaborate affair, but the other part of me is sad that we gloss over it so quickly; that we don’t linger long enough to let the fact that “Jesus is risen” turn into an amazing celebration.

This Easter, tell the rest of the Christmas story. Yes, Jesus was born in Bethlehem and laid in a manger. Shepherds and angels were there to witness it. Wise men visited him and brought precious gifts. But Jesus didn’t remain as a baby! He grew up to preach the Good News to all who would listen. Then, He gave us the ultimate gift of Himself, in our place, so that we would have the opportunity to live with Him forever.

Easter truly is the happy ending to the Christmas Story! Let’s make that connection for our kids.

Donna Newell, Pastor