We Are Blessed

“Dawn and resurrection are synonymous. The reappearance of the light is the same as the survival of the soul.”

Victor Hugo

Happy Easter Monday! 

It’s hard to believe we celebrated Easter yesterday. In the past, my family got together on Sunday after Pop took us to church. We practiced the Holy Week observances and fasted Good Friday, but we knew Sunday was coming. After church, we had what felt like an all-day party. My brothers and sister would come to the house with their families, and the older children would hide colored eggs for the littles. Someone always hid eggs so well that no one would find them, and the older children would have their own hunt to find the missing eggs. We were blessed.

It was a non-stop day of family, friends, food, and fun. We all had our finery on and felt secure in knowing everyone would have a good time. Neighbors came over, and friends who were displaced from their homes or relatives came because our home was the hub. It’s where love was so abundant that we knew there was enough to go around, no matter how many extra people showed up. There was light and love and friendship and faith. We were blessed.

I remember the first time I attended sunrise service, where new memories were made as the sun crested the hills. The place was atop one of several hills and had been lavishly appointed as though church was experienced there every week. The cross at the front of our sanctuary was illuminated as the sun rose. I still get chills thinking about it. What a wonderous site. It was as if the sun shone through the cross to light our very essence with the love of Christ. We were blessed.

I found the following quote penned by Victor Hugo, considered one of the most renowned French writers of the 1800s. The words capture the heart of Easter in a way that prompts both memories and thoughts of faith:

Christians believe Christ paid the ultimate price for us by suffering unbearable pain and humiliation. That was on a Friday. He then conquered death by resurrecting, fulfilling prophecies. On Sunday, He became our Source of light to ensure our survival. He became our hope. We were blessed.

Because of the power of the resurrection and the love that preceded the ultimate sacrifice, we have hope for the future. Pastors preached these thoughts in many churches yesterday. They are words found throughout the New Testament.

Here’s a reference in Scripture from Romans:

“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13 (NKJV)

As you reflect on the events of last week leading up to Easter, take a few moments to think about the fact that each day we’re privileged to experience dawn and, with it, resurrection. We were blessed then, and we are blessed now. Every day we can experience the light that comes in the morning and can ensure the survival of the light that lives within! We are blessed!

Have a lovely week filled with love and light!

Be Well & Be Blessed!

Lucinda