Although Lent is traditionally a time for more contemplative reflection, prayer, and the ‘giving up’ of something—it culturally has now developed into something quite different!
As Easter/Resurrection Sunday draws closer, many places (including churches) have planned for children to have “Easter Egg Hunts”. Colorful, plastic ‘eggs’ are filled with candy, and scattered (or hidden) for children to find and enjoy. Easter baskets with small gifts and candy or other treats that are given to children or grandchildren to celebrate at this time of year. I’m thankful for the Christian business online (www.christianbook.com ) that provide “Resurrection Eggs”. They are celebrating 30 years of giving children a truer perspective of the meaning of Easter, while still enabling the kids to enjoy the festive time of year.
I want to include “Jelly Bean Prayer” (author unknown) which can also give a context to the deep significance of all Jesus did for us on Good Friday, and Easter Sunday!!
Red is for the Blood He gave,
Green is for the Grass He made,
Yellow is for His Sun so bright,
Orange is for the Edge of Night.
Black is for the Sins we made,
White is for the Grace He gave,
Purple is for His hours of Sorrow,
Pink is for our “New Tomorrow”.
An egg full of jelly beans, colorful and sweet,
Is a prayer, a promise, and an Easter treat.
As you celebrate both prayerfully, and worshipfully this coming Easter, may you also include the fun way to incorporate the cultural event!
Lord, We can never thank You enough for the price You paid, in dying in our place for our sins. But, with our humble gratitude and love, may we always remember Your love and grace; and share it with others! Thank you for the fun way we can offer these truths to our children and grandchildren, or others we are in contact with! In Your precious name, Amen.