He is Risen! (Easter 2015)

As I pondered the power of the cross of Christ in preparation for Easter this year, I came across this old photo from May of 2000.  It made me think of Easter, and so I tried to caption it for an inspirational Easter post.  Instead the words that came out became a poetic metaphor which told the love story behind the picture as a way of pointing to the greatest love story every told, the story that changed the world and all mankind forever.

When J returned after eight long years
To me and to God who had bottled our tears.
I took him here to behold God's splendor,
And we marveled at His love so pure and tender.

Sin creates a chasm between God and man.
It's never enough to be the best that we can.
Only His suffering could fully atone,
To bring us back so we're no longer alone.

With our eyes fixed on Him and this beautiful sight,
We forsook the darkness to embrace His light.
With Christ in our hearts, we could truly unite
With God as our king, J could be my knight. 

It was here that we knew I would be his wife.
Because of the cross, we have received new life.
Our marriage is bliss with God at our side.
But the best one is Christ's with us as His bride!

On the rugged cross, our agony He bore.
So the curse of sin would be no more.
Thank you, Lord Jesus, for paying the price.
You have risen, victorious, glorious Christ!

Happy Easter!

He is risen indeed!

I was challenged & touched by glimpses of my 5th grader experiencing Easter today. Examples:
- After church, she joyfully shouted, "God's not dead, Y'ALL!"
- She shared Christ and His love with an unbelieving friend and sorrowed when her friend could not see the point or the need.
- She explained to others the futility of "looking for the living among the dead" which in her words is "seeking what only God gives in the things of this world."

We celebrated Easter with my family at my home church followed by a delicious home cooked meal by my sweet mom and desserts by my aunt.  It was a very nice visit. Mom had gifts for the kids and even a present for Muffin.  The kids came home to more Easter goodies, playtime with neighbors on this gorgeous day, and our annual cross cake tradition.