So, we all know what time it is, and every year it’s the same song and dance…at least for me. I just finished watching Passion of the Christ with Indian Springs a few moments ago. The gripping nature of the film leaves you anything but thoughtless.
So I saw the movie, but it doesn’t stop there. It can’t. So, I decided to write down a few of my thoughts for practically celebrating Easter, or more simply put, remembering what Jesus did in order for us to exist in the reality we exist in.
1. Decide to spend some extra time in God’s Word and prayer.
This is the most obvious, so I start here. However cliche this may sound, though, I imagine that this is one of the things our Heavenly Father wants most – to reconnect with Him. Commit to spend a little extra time reading the very words He decided to speak directly to you! Respond in conversation and worship! As much as I know my earthly father and I love to spend time together, I imagine this would be a great start.
2. Decide to express your love and thanksgiving creatively.
Lots of us have hobbies, some creative, some not. I’m not sure who you are and what you enjoy doing in your spare time, but I’m guessing there is something that sparks your creative fire that intersects with the story of Jesus. This might be painting, journaling, writing poetry, playing music, or just losing yourself in nature. I’ve found that expressing my love for Jesus creatively actually brings out a passion I didn’t know existed.
3. Tell the story of Jesus.
DISCLAIMER: Please don’t go knock on someone’s door and tell them that they’re going to hell if things don’t change. No one likes that. No one likes super-Christian. In fact, I’d be curious to know if this method of evangelism has EVER worked. No, tell the story of Jesus with your words, with your actions, with your body language, anything to show someone the love of Christ. Somewhere between 2 AD and 2009, people have mistaken the Jesus who endured more pain than anyone I know for the Jesus that is overly-political, misogynisitic, and a religious bigot. This isn’t true – maybe you can change someone’s mind.
4. Decide to go out of your way, and out of your comfort zone to serve someone this week.
When i think about the pain Jesus endured for us on the cross, I just can’t stop thinking that the whole time He had the option to exit the situation. From the interrogation, to the beatings, and to the actual crucifixion, Jesus knew that what He was doing had to be done…for us! Who is around you that needs to be served in some way? My guess is that you know who they are. A picture of that person has already appeared in your mind’s eye. Go love on that person, even if it means great sacrifice.
5. Yes, go to church. But be the church, too.
This Sunday, the church doors will be open. People will walk through the corridor of churches all over the world, all for different reasons. Don’t just go to your normal seat, talk to your group of friends, and follow the pattern of your own routine. Break the rules. Seek the people that Jesus loves, and is drawing to Himself. Because if someone didn’t follow the call to serve you, then where would you be today?