Easter

I love all the Christian holidays. Despite naysayers and historical accuracy (or inaccuracy, as many would say) I love them. Why? Because they are a time to reflect on the goodness of my Savior, Jesus Christ. Yes, the world has secularized them to the point of no return, but that doesn't hamper my reflection, nor constrain my enjoyment.

Is Easter the actual date of Christ's Resurrection? Is Christmas the time Jesus was born? I have no idea! I have read wildly differing 'facts', opinions, and arguments. I have dear friends and family that hold (very) strong beliefs one way or the other. More to point, I believe, is the question: "Does it matter?"

Does it really matter what day Jesus was born? Or died? Or resurrected? If you are so dogmatic about it - maybe you actually need to stop studying into the history, and start digging into the reason for the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus! He came to save us from ourselves. From our own pride and arrogance.

Of all the holidays, though - Easter is the most meaningful to me. Christmas is fun and heartwarming. Usually associated with family. But Easter... Easter is more reflective. Introspective. Was His death in vain - for me? Do I understand exactly why He died and rose again? Do I live like one whose Savior has conquered death and the grave?

Jesus died for a reason beyond saving my sorry soul from hell. He wanted to save me from self. He wants me to live victorious over the death that is my own un-redeemed flesh. He died so that I could live. So that I could live a life hidden in Christ - by the power of the Holy Spirit.

"Jesus became a curse, so that I could become a blessing." -Zac Poonen

Jesus' death and Resurrection would be good if all it did was save us from hell. But it was for so much more! His example of perfect sinlessness (in a human body) showed us a path of walking in complete victory over sin.

It wasn't some dark ritual that God had to carry out - to save the human race from death - it was an atonement for our own desperate sinfulness, and an example of the righteous life that we can live in Jesus.

As I ponder the significance of Easter, I have to wonder: How have I lived, in light of the Gospel? Do I live as one who has been redeemed? Or am I content to say that Jesus died for my sin, and continue to enjoy (and excuse) the sin in which I am currently living?