Gratitude and Easter

As a child growing up I loved Easter both for the egg-hunts as well as for the higher understanding of what Easter is really all about.

As a young mother I learned to take more seriously the idea that Easter isn't about the fun distractions, but truly about the resurrection of our Master, Christ Jesus.

Then, one year the Easter message began coming to me months prior to the Easter season and led me to a higher understanding of what Christ Jesus' mission is really all about - living proof of eternal life.

That year, while others may have been focused on the passion, the crucifixion, the three days in the sepulchre, giving up something meaningful or desired in the pratice of lent, my thought was hinged on the idea of immortal life and a resurrected, spiritual thought. I completely felt uplifted, joyful, expectant of all good. But, mostly, I felt grateful.

I was grateful for all Christ Jesus has done for humanity. For his royal relationship to God. For his courage in fulfilling his mission. For his obedience to God. For his fearlessness. For his spiritual strength and savvy. I was grateful that he was my Master, my Way-shower, and that through the teachings of Christian Science I was learning how to follow him.

Now, this gratitude stays with me day-in and day-out, but returns with an overwhelming force each year at this time. The depth of Christ Jesus' work for each one of us is showstopping and can lead us to a greater sense of not only gratitude but awe-inspiring followership.

In studying his life, acts, and words and works, we learn it's not enough to merely be grateful, but rather we must "go and do likewise" (Luke 10:37) if are going to follow in his steps. Our daily tasks require that the highest practice of Chritianity be implemented -- thus showing our works and not just voicing our words.

This year, might not we all take a few days to contemplate his divine mission and the fulfillment of it? Let this Easter message of resurrected thought seep deep within us and pause in this inspired, scientific sense of his mission?

I'll be doing it right along with you...