Whenever a holiday rolls around, I consider its significance and meaning. Well, here comes another one.
Easter is upon us. It's one of the two most important days for a Christian. Many believe it is the most meaningful. For me, it's the preeminent one. Unlike Christmas, where Jesus had little to do with the outcome, Easter was all his doing -- and God's.
What first comes to mind? The obvious: Jesus Christ, crucifixion, and resurrection. But upon deeper reflection, I realize that there's much more than these few words. There's substance and symbolism. Jesus was crucified to save me from my sins and raised from the dead to prove life everlasting.
I never cease to marvel at this. What a gracious gesture! It's certainly not your basic holding a door open for someone or escorting the elderly across the street.
Jesus's action shows that Easter is about sacrifice. What could be a greater offering? Giving your life so others may live, live eternally. Too often I worry about what I can do for myself. I give far too little thought to others. I just don't consider the sacrifices I need to make. Love. It's not possible to ponder Easter, and Jesus Christ, without also envisioning love. I know about its power and glory. But do I use that force to the best advantage?
Love and Jesus are virtually synonymous. Jesus said to love one another as yourself. The wonder and potency of love can't be overstated. The word love is used over 600 times in the Bible. Hate appears only 40. The numbers can't be coincidental. The primacy of love over hate is abundantly clear. The message is repeated over and over again. It's a call to arms. Arms around each other, that is. It is written that of faith, hope, and love, the greatest is love. Forgiveness. How can I forgive if I don't also love? Love is a necessary condition. But even with love, forgiving those their trespasses is extremely difficult. When Jesus was asked if we should forgive others their sins seven times, he replied, no, 70 times seven. Numbers are not the message, however. The charge is to do it always and forever.
When did I last forgive someone who cut me off in traffic, or drove too fast, or drove too slowly? I can't remember. I know I'm getting old and my memory is fading, but this is ridiculous. Has it been that long? Maybe I should start by forgiving myself for this one of my many personal weaknesses.
Sacrifice. If Jesus sacrificed his very life, shouldn't I give something back to someone? How can I help people -- from my wife, children and friends to the poor wretch sleeping on the grates? I must give. I must sacrifice. It is better to give than receive. I believe that; however, I fear that once given away, possessions won't come back. What little faith have I! It is also written that whatever is given will be returned in full measure.
Why would Jesus make his sacrifice? Because he loved us and wanted us to love each other. My mission is to follow his example and love and forgive those with whom I share this earthly orb. Before I can do that, I must first make a sacrifice and rid myself of selfishness. How hard could that be? Guess I have my work cut out for me.
Love, Forgiveness, Sacrifice. That's what Easter is to me. If there is greater guidance than this, please tell me. At last, I think I figured out the what. The Bible's given me that.
Now, if I could only figure out the how.
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Fred W. Apelquist, III, M.Ed.
Approximately 600 words.
(c) 1995