Easter & Life
In the wake of the heartache I’ve experienced these last few weeks, I’m finding such comfort in the gift of Spring – harsh, driving rain that pounds down with permission- even expectation- to grieve, followed by the first truly warm, jacket-free, flower-blooming days – an invitation to get out, be grateful, and keep living fully. All this coincides with Easter, too: my favorite holiday, an opportunity to stop and dwell on the person who matters most to me, and the gift of life He gives.
As you think about Easter, I want to share a two little gifts with you, both of which I came across through friends.
The first is a blog. My friend Larissa introduced me to the idea of an Easter Garden, pictured above. It was created by Ann Voskamp, and after reading her description of the process, I was quickly drawn in to her blog, A Holy Experience. I’ve been so comforted and re-centered by her writing. Ann’s blog sets out to be “a still chapel” and it has been that for me this week. Her writing has such a pure goodness to it. Take a minute, and read it when you have the time to soak it in, not in a frenzy of internet blitzing. It’s good. Also, check out her heartfelt and beautiful ideas for celebrating Easter, and more details on making your own Easter Garden- steeped with meaning and hands on learning for your family.
The second little gift is a song, that I discovered by way of one of my favorite blogs, b*spoke. Bethany posted this just today, and it brought me to my knees. The words tied my grief up into a tangible parcel and placed it right where it belonged, at the foot of the cross. It’s called Out of the Depths, by Sovereign Grace Music. Here are some of the lyrics, or listen to it here.
The secret mysteries belong to You/ We only know what You reveal / And all my questions that are unresolved/ Don’t change the wisdom of Your will/ In every trial and loss / My hope is in the cross / Where Your compassions never fail
As we embrace Good Friday and Easter this weekend, I hope your heart (and mine) is soft and open to the whispers of God – His mercy, His faithfulness, the gift of His life.
