As we approach Easter Sunday, it’s quite easy to let all of the traditions and celebration become the main thing. You’re likely getting together the perfect Easter outfit in all of its pastel glory, stocking up on food coloring, dozens of eggs – both real and plastic – and searching for the right chocolate eggs (Cadbury, of course).
That’s all well and good. In fact, it’s something to look forward to each year and creates wonderful memories to look back on. But if that’s all there is, we’re missing so much.
Let’s not let that be our Easter story. Choose today to fix your gaze on Jesus Christ, His death and resurrection.
Let’s focus.
Take a few minutes to slowly read the Scripture below and ask the Holy Spirit what He has for you in these verses.
But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed. Isaiah 53:5
I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death. Philippians 3:10
The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Romans 6:8-11
You killed the author of life, but God raised him from the dead. Acts 3:15
For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:13-14
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. 1 Peter 1:3
Let’s pray.
Lord Jesus,
Thank You for being faithful to Your promises even though I am not.
Thank You for lovingly coming into this world to show us the way to abundant and eternal life.
Thank You for showing me how to live perfectly, while extending grace when I miss the mark.
Forgive me for taking my eyes off of you.
Forgive me for allowing and encouraging the distractions.
Forgive me for not trusting in Your goodness.
Give me a heart that wants to follow after you.
Give me thoughts directed to Your holiness.
Give me eyes that will look for opportunities to serve others.
Help me to know You the way You want to be known.
Help me to believe You are who You say You are.
Help me to speak the truth of Your Gospel in love to those around me.
In Jesus’ – the One who was and is, and is to come – Name.
Amen.
Let’s listen.