"For if we have been united together in the likeness of His death, certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection." -Romans 6:5
It's hard to believe that Lily Grace would have been 11 months old last week. I have been thinking a lot about how one year ago we were anxiously awaiting that precious child that God blessed us with. In our ignorance, we had no idea how that blessing would change our life, make us investigate our faith and rely more than ever on the promise of God. Every event that happened this past year is enfolded in our belief in Easter.
In our modern day society, Easter has taken the form of painted easter eggs, chocolate bunnies and pink, grass-filled baskets. I am not criticizing, I actually enjoy all of these traditions as well (we painted eggs this morning)! I just feel that we are guilty of hiding the cross behind all the glitter and egg dye. I have always been taught the true meaning of Easter, and for that I thank my parents and Sunday school teachers. I always knew the meaning of the cross and resurrection, but this year was the first time that I had to really apply it to my own life.
You see, Easter isn't all about the joyous resurrection, there was suffering before the dawn. Jesus had to lay down his own life and his own will to fulfill Gods' plan. He had to suffer a pain so great for a sin he never committed. He went through torture, temptation and a horrifying death before he could be raised to life. This Easter, I find myself looking to the cross in a whole new light. I see the suffering there, coupled with Gods' almighty sovereignty. God allowed Jesus to suffer so that we can enjoy an eternity with our Father.
For me, this past year, while filled with many blessings, was also covered with grief and suffering. For others, it may have been sickness, death, family issues, addictions or divorce. The fact is, during our life on this earth, we are going to suffer. This Easter, I am going to remember all the suffering and pain of the cross, but I am choosing to see the resurrection. I am going to focus on the promise that God made through raising Jesus from the dead. That through his Son, we can spend an eternity in heaven where there will be no more sin, sickness and suffering. Easter is the most powerful example of Gods' never-failing love and His ability to turn what the world meant for evil, the crucifixion, into something so miraculous and wonderful, the resurrection.
I know God is working his miraculous power in our lives to turn our suffering into something so great. Michael and I have been so blessed by the power of everyone's prayers throughout our journey, thank you! This month especially, we ask for your prayers for strength and encouragement as we enter into that "one year" mark of anniversaries for Lily Grace. With that, Happy Easter!
