Archive for April, 2009

Victory

Sunday, April 12th, 2009

On this Easter Sunday, I can’t help but smile as I peer from my window into my sunny backyard, at the blossoming trees and growing green grass. The scene makes my heart glad, and I silently give thanks that I’ve lived to see another Resurrection Sunday and be reminded of just how powerful, generous and loving God is.

Yesterday here in Richmond, the day was chilly and overcast – uncomfortable for a cold-natured person like me. But today I am reminded that when we hold on to God during complicated or challenging seasons, or on days when we simply can’t see the sun, He will pull us through.

In 1 Corinthians 15:17, the apostle Paul wrote: “If Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.” In other words, there’s no hope for tomorrow.

But thankfully, Christ did rise, and thankfully we can celebrate his sacrifice and his victory.

Wherever life leads you in the coming week, remember the significance of this day; remember that it’s all about you. Jesus died and rose so that you might have life. When the challenges come, the fears lurk or the doubts begin to surface, utter these two words – “He Rose” - and remember that since He has already paid the price, you already have the victory.

Rejoice!

Welcome, Spring

Monday, April 6th, 2009

With one book deadline behind me, I’m partially out of my “writing cave.” At least enough to enjoy this first full week of April and marvel at the bursts of rain competing with the brilliant sunshine.

This is the week leading up to Easter, a personally special day for me. During this week, I’ll also mark the fourth anniversary of the day my Mom “graduated” to Heaven. My emotions are somewhat like the weather – sunny and thankful one minute and a bit wistful the next.

But the good thing about those wistful, longing moments is that I know they’ll be followed by periods of comfort and joy, and more importantly, by opportunities to live and love with purpose, in ways that please both the Master – whom Easter is all about – and my Mom – who lived and died with Resurrection Sunday in mind.

Easter Blessings.