Easter Eggs and Overly-Sized Bunnies
by I wrote this last Easter. Oh, how society can magnify religious traditions and thrust them into the monsters of societal commercialism. Enjoy my little contribution to the Easter holiday!
We all know that today is the day of Jesus’ resurrection from the dead, also known as Easter. However, only few know what Easter truly entails.
A reluctant parent chosen to be forcibly concealed under a rabbit suit; the frenzy of kids eagerly hunting for a scattered array of pastel-colored Easter eggs; the little chocolate-y surprises enclosed by pounds of thin layers of aluminum foil.
Initially, these images come to mind when I think of Easter.
But this does not define Easter.
In truth, the meaning of Easter has been tainted by such products of commercialism that we’ve lost a sense of purpose for this holiday (besides the experience induced by egg hunts and overly-sized bunnies). Yet, after we strip this holiday of all its commercial notions, the question of Easter re-emerges: What is the meaning of Easter?
“..On the third day he rose again, in fulfillment of the scripture. He ascended into Heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again, in glory, to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end.”
On a weekly basis, Catholics have consistently recited this prayer and today, the importance of this message is particularly stressed. This specific excerpt in the Nicene Creed illustrates Jesus’ resurrection and most significantly, interjects meaning into the celebration of Easter.
Jesus’ ascension into Heaven verified to his disciples (and nonbelievers) that he is the son of God. His ascent reaffirmed the faith of his followers, while it completely diminished any preconceived doubts skeptics had. More importantly, Jesus’ ascension expressed the continuous, everlasting glory of God. It indicated that through the eternal kingdom of Heaven, His light, His glorification, and His love will exist perpetually.
Jesus’ death upon the cross demonstrated his unselfish love for us. It showed his willingness to die for us, despite the fact that he was wronged by his own people, his own followers. Essentially, he said: Hey, I forgive you and I still love you, regardless of your wrongdoings. And in return, his act of self-sacrifice naturally gained appreciation and respect from people.
We are all disciples of God. We are all disciples of love and goodness.
If we can take away anything from this day — even if you don’t necessarily believe in God — its the valuable message conveyed: we must treat each other with that same kind of altruistic, humane behavior Jesus demonstrated — with kindness — and above all, we must respect and love one another.
Happy Easter!
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