"...that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death"
Philippians 3:10, ESV
The Easter season can speak life to our souls. Dogwoods bloom. Azaleas are full of pink and white. Tulips and daffodils bless the landscape with yellows and reds. A look out my window gives me pause to praise the One who is the author of all living things.
Watching my seven grandchildren is also enlightening. Excitement fills their innocent faces with glorious hope of a once a year event. With ear to ear smiles, they are already hiding eggs, carrying around their Easter baskets, and counting the days til Sunday.
Seeing the many blooms and watching happy faces remind me of life. And though Easter is a time for lovely photo ops, egg hunts, and pretty dresses, the voice of eternal life roars above the throngs of these many joys.
I must hear his voice of beauty. I must feel his life-giving presence in my soul. I must see Jesus.
I must see him clearly. I must draw close enough to him to hear his thunderous words of life. I must walk the Via Dolorosa and find his friendship there. I must be conformed to Jesus' death so that I can know his life.
Jesus' life is in us and awaits us at every turn. Because he gave everything and was the epitome of obedience to the Father, we have everything and can follow him in that same obedience. And with great smiles of courage, we can live in innocent hope and praise him always.
Such rest of the soul does not grow from a particular spiritual formula or positive confession. This life of hope and praise is birthed in our death to self and a new creation of self that we find only in Jesus' identity.
May your life be filled with soul peace. May your vision be cast to your risen Lord. May this Easter be filled with the joyful reality of Christ's resurrection life, which fills you and flows through you.
Peace, Grace, Love,
Andrea
