Happy Easter! Our Lord, Jesus has Risen! He has overcome darkness and evil and even death!
I don't know about you, but I often feel that after Easter, it's anti-climactic! Lent is over, Easter family celebrations are done, Spring Break is over and life goes back to "normal". Why don't I feel "New life?"
But, as I reflect on scripture, especially the Gospels and Acts of the Apostles: Two of my favorites: Doubting Thomas and Emmaus Story, I am positive that is NOT what God had in mind for us! What is the GOOD NEWS? Not that we go on in life - day by day -just by getting by, but to THRIVE! To have life to the full! I ask myself (yes, I do talk and answer myself!) What would make my life truly JOYOUS?
What things drive me crazy? Push me to the brink? Here are some of mine:
How do I keep this NEW LIFE going? By praying, keeping my eyes on God, reading His love letter to me (the Bible), by Reconciling with God and my brothers and sisters - asking for forgiveness when I turn away, by celebrating Mass and recognizing Jesus is truly present and wants to me with me!
The GREAT NEWS is that I am a child of God and am truly loved - no matter what I do or don't do. Jesus died so that I could be with Him in all eternity! This is GREAT NEWS!!!
Today is a NEW DAY! Our Church is a great Do-Over Church. The sacraments keep us closer to God if we live them!
It's like going from living life in black and white, to beautiful, glorious Color!
My prayer for you this Easter Season (it lasts until Pentecost on May 15th) is that EVERY MORNING, you put your God-glasses on and see the MYSTERY and BEAUTY He has in store for you that day! Live the JOY!
Easter Blessings to you and your family!
Nancy Longo
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Middle School Youth Ministry Activities
