The Easter Lily, known scientifically as Lilium longiflorum, has been associated with Easter for centuries. It’s believed to symbolize purity, renewal, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ in Christian traditions. The tradition of using the Easter Lily as a symbol of the holiday dates back to the 19th century, and it became more popular in the United States in the early 20th century. The flower’s white petals are said to represent the purity of Christ, while its trumpet shape symbolizes the trumpet call of God. Today, the Easter Lily is widely used in Easter decorations, ceremonies, and religious services. ChatGPT
My late wife’s name was Lily. She loved to stand next to me at the end of the Easter service and have people greet her saying ‘Happy Easter Lily!” Though her body wash ravaged by Muscular Dystrophy and other associated ills her Spirit was strong in the faith of Jesus for the resurrection of her restored body and soul. Her smile was a testimony of her faith.
Many Christians do not know the symbolism of the Easter but feel the praise of their display as they decorate so many sanctuaries in the Sunday of the Resurrection.
Colossians 3:1 – “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.”
On this Sunday we not only celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. We also celebrate the promise of our own resurrection through faith in Him.
Many today in our culture despair for the present and the future. Many young people choose to be childless because they lack hope for the future.
Here are a few scriptures from the Bible about hope:
1.Romans 15:13 (NIV): “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
2.Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV): “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
3.Psalm 71:14 (NIV): “As for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more.”
4.Hebrews 11:1 (NIV): “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”
5.Romans 5:5 (NIV): “And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”
These scriptures highlight the importance of hope in the Christian faith and the assurance believers have in God’s promises. ChatGTP
These are difficult times. Yet difficult times come and go. Christ in us is the hope for today and the future for us and for our children.
Esther 4:14 (NIV):
“For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?””
This verse is often interpreted as a call to action in times of crisis or need, emphasizing the idea that individuals may be placed in certain positions or circumstances for a specific purpose or divine reason.
Think not , to rephrase president Kennedy, what the church can do for you but what you in faith and trust in Jesus can do for the church and for God’s creation. Perhaps be a Fool for Christ like Lily. Perhaps like your unique self in Christ!
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