Easter Traditions

For Christians, Easter is the most important day of the year. We celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Savior of our souls.  He was crucified on a cruel cross on a Friday, he died and was buried, but on the third day, Sunday, He arose. Jesus returned from the dead and lives today. 

 Why do we call it Easter?

An author in the Sixth Century believed the English word, Easter, came from an Anglo-Saxon goddess who represented spring and reproduction.  I think we should change the name of the day to Resurrection Sunday.

How about those eggs?

Easter eggs are founded in non-Christian festivities.  Dying eggs, hiding eggs, rolling eggs is an activity many Christians as well as non-Christians participate in each year.  Eggs represent fertility. 

Don't forget the bunny.

The Easter Bunny “delivers” candy and chocolates to many children on Easter morning.  Most of the time, these goodies come in an Easter Basket.  Why a bunny? No one knows for certain, but many think German immigrants brought the idea to America. Bunnies are passionate procreators, another indicator of birth and renewal.

Foods

A lamb is often the main entre. A lamb was killed for Passover, and now, Jesus is the “Lamb of God.”  Ham is another traditional favorite. Before the Resurrection and ascension, Jewish people couldn’t eat ham or pork. After the Resurrection, God told Peter all foods were clean.

He is risen! Enjoy your traditions, but remember the reason for Resurrection Sunday! Jesus lives!

Faith and Humor