A Come as You are Easter

Easter is my favorite holiday. Although commercialized with bunnies, peeps and candy on grocery store shelves, the hope and promise of the season surmounts the distracting tinsel pomp.

But this year my anticipation of Holy Week was nowhere to be found. A cloud of darkness and dread dampened my normal joy for the season.

Maybe the fact that my hours at work as a prn (as needed) RN diminished needed income, and a shadow of worry crowed out expectations of holiday cheer. Then the season of spring in the Midwest lagged behind with cool temps, rain and dreary weather.

My plan? Just make it through the day. My favorite hat and colorful Easter wardrobe stayed in the closet. I wore jeans and a nice blouse. My frame of mind, void of celebration.

But the Holy Spirit had Other Plans

That morning I read a blog about dark days, Growing Through Dark Days of the Soul, filled with hope and encouragement. And the weather was picture perfect. Sunny, no wind with tulips and creeping flocks in full bloom to meet me as we headed to church.

Then our church choir sang like angels and with the help of the orchestra. Our gifted song leader led the congregation in sweet worship to the Resurrected King, our hope of glory.

I felt I was in heaven, and the clouds of darkness lifted. Christ the Lord is risen today. In our hearts, minds and souls.

The Easter celebration was complete in His loving presence. And He always invites us to come as we are. His victory over death does not depend on outfits, hats, or ability to celebrate.

He just wants us to come and experience His resurrection power. For the first time, or once again.

God meets us where we are and offers hope, peace and joy. Amen.

Prayer for You Today

May Christ, the resurrected King, meet you where you are today. May His loving presence manifest in His perfect touch to each area of need in your life. Amen.

“Finding Delight in the Vineyard” helps you cling more closely to the Lover of your soul. John 15 is brought to life through the cultivation and care of the vineyard. Are you abiding in the True Vine today?

Finding Delight in the Vineyard: Cling to the True Vine