Today can be a celebration for lots of reasons and in lots of ways. Last year, I compared Easter to the beginning of a new year. And I've certainly covered the topic of "being thankful" countless times. (OK, actually one, two, three...three times specifically, and probably more than that in passing.)
But Easter, for me, has always emanated such joy, and what goes better with rejoicing than thanksgiving?
I rejoice that spring has finally begun to appear. I have no doubt that the rest of the snow will melt, and the tulips, lilacs, and warm breezes will replace it. As I write this, I've noticed big wet flakes have started to fall. I am not too dismayed. I have faith it won't be around for long!
I am thankful that my loved ones and I made it through another winter. Sure, we had some good old-fashioned snowstorms here, but at least nothing so bad that it shut down the city. My car never ended up in a ditch, did yours?
We can rejoice in our faith. People express their faith in different ways and in varying degrees. Many of us believe that today celebrates the resurrection of our Lord. You may have a different belief system. Your faith in the government or in religion may be shaky. But don't stop believing in someone or something, and by all means, you must always have faith in yourself!
Since it's Easter, perhaps we can be extra thankful for eggs! And for chickens, too, regardless of which came first. Whether they're a favorite all year round or only when they're hard-boiled and dyed, we should remember to be thankful for the little things in life...like eggs.
Have you ever stopped to appreciate color? Easter eggs, stained glass, tulips, our flag...just look around. Colors can have deeper significance attached. But you can take those meanings away and simply marvel at the beauty of the colors that surround us. I'm thankful my life is not in black-and-white.
Chocolate bunnies bring me joy. I admit I may take chocolate for granted, and I would hate to imagine life without it. Does that sound shallow and petty? Perhaps, but that doesn't mean I shouldn't be happy when I get one.
I can be thankful for actual bunnies, too. They're just so darn cute when they're not eating my plants.
What's a popular way to express joy? Music, of course! Trumpets and timpani or your toddler with a spoon and a kettle. Music itself isn't right or wrong. It just is...however you make it or hear it or feel it.
Today can be not just a good day when I feel happy. Today can be a day filled with joy...and thanksgiving. If we can keep that feeling of gratitude every day, perhaps more days can be filled with joy.
I leave you with one of my favorite Easter songs. It's not what you'd call a traditional hymn, but "The Easter Song" performed by the late Keith Green always brings me joy.
Happy Easter!
