I was looking and listening for something magical, something mystical. Some sort of sign or brilliant insight. Something that would bring a tear to my eye and profound joy to my heart. Perhaps even something dramatic and fearful, like the empty tomb and the angels those first disciples encountered. Something that would compel me to run and proclaim the good news to anyone who would listen.
But the magic never came. The profoundness never arrived. It was simply another pleasant sunrise on a slightly chilly mid-spring morning.
I can`t say, however, that I'm disappointed. Despite the lack of a personal Easter miracle, I still believe in the promises the day brings. I still know that death is not the end of the story, and that God is constantly bringing new life for those who dare to believe.
But maybe it's because I'm older now, as close to retirement as I am to my college graduation. Or maybe it's because the traditional celebrations of the day - the sunrise services, the lilies in the sanctuary, and the recitations of "He is risen! He is risen indeed!" - maybe it`s because they have a "been there, done that" feel after 17 years in ministry.
Or maybe it's just me. Maybe my heart is seeking constancy. Maybe my soul is seeking solitude. Maybe my faith is evolving into something less dramatic, and more steady.
Maybe a gentle breeze, a soft cloud, a calm pond, and the distant cry of a pair of geese is all I need on this day - which honestly, is no different than any other day. Maybe these sights and sounds, which are offered up on any morning I take the time to sit in the backyard - maybe they are God`s steadfast way of reminding me of what I already believe about eternal life, but sometimes forget.
So Happy Easter, all. May we celebrate in whatever ways bring us the reassurance and the peace that Christ is indeed risen from the dead!
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