Evidence of Spring is all around us with magnolia trees bursting with flowers, birds singing, and warmer temperatures. It’s comforting to know that spring comes heralding new life every year, regardless of how uncertain and chaotic life can be. This season reminds all humanity of the cycles of life, and rebirth.
With spring comes Easter, which is the embodiment of new life and hope for many people around the world. Along with its inherent message of joy, Easter has a unique formula to determine its date. Unlike most other major holidays, it is not celebrated on a set date every year. “Easter falls on the first Sunday following the first ecclesiastical full moon that occurs on or after the day of the vernal equinox.” This year, Easter falls on Sunday, April 5. Thankfully, you don’t have to remember the scientific formula for when to celebrate it.
Although both religious and non-religious people celebrate Easter, it is primarily a Christian holiday. For Christians, Easter is a joyous celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Son of God who walked the earth 2,000 years ago. Followers believe Jesus was the promised Savior foretold in the Old Testament of the Bible who came to reconcile mankind with God through His death on the cross. His sacrifice gives believers hope for eternal life.
Jesus’s resurrection is often symbolized with the Easter Lilies which are commonly referred to as “white robed apostles of hope.”
Whether you are Christian or not, perhaps you have seen the following key biblical verse on a billboard while driving along the road, in a book, or recited by someone you know.
For God So Loved the World that He gave His only begotten Son that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16.
This verse, which hinges on the idea of forgiveness, is treasured by Christians and culminates in the sacred holiday and joyous celebration of Easter.
As noted by Martin Luther King Jr., “Forgiveness is not an occasional act, it is a constant attitude.”
Forgiveness transcends religious or cultural background. We all say and do things that hurt those around us. Sometimes, we even struggle most to forgive ourselves. The season of Spring and the celebration of Easter can be a time to let go of those feelings of anger and resentment that hold us back in our relationships with others and ultimately hurt ourselves. Then we too can grow, and just like the blooming plants all around us, we can experience new life.
For everyone, Easter Season is a beautiful opportunity to gather with family and friends, enjoy fun traditions, and appreciate nature.
We at the Highline Journal wish a warm and joyous Easter to all our readers. May your day be filled with delight!
