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The change of Easter

Hilda J. Born

Reverently and solemnly, we prepare for communion on Crucifixion Friday. I put on a dark dress and sadly dwell on the pain and cost of sin – mine and others’. Like the disciples, I am almost disillusioned when I think of all the unfairness. So many loved ones die young and in great pain, including my husband Jake’s two younger sisters and my father. My brother’s ten-year battle with diabetes and cancer seemed never-ending. But none is as horrible as Golgotha.

On the hushed Saturday of preparation for Easter, I cook three dozen eggs to colour. But this year, with the seven youngest grandchildren overseas, who’ll want to participate in such frivolity? To lift my spirits, I bought an Easter banner to pin on the living room curtains.

When the house and meal are ready, I begin to feel more like the believers in Botswana. They keep Christmas simply and quietly, but Easter is different. They think it should be a time of rejoicing. Even if AIDS can put them in the grave, Jesus arose and overcame death. He guarantees an eternal reunion! Like these new Christians, I, too, can count on meeting dear ones because of Christ’s resurrection.

On Sunday, the twins in Brazil turned five. At four o’clock, colour e-mail pictures of their birthday party spill out of our computer. If human beings can come up with such dramatic technology, I’m sure God can do more. It will be simple for us all to hear Gabriel’s trumpet when the Lord calls us for the heavenly ascension.

On Easter, I’ll wear my lilac suit and sing hosannas to our Lord.

Hilda J. Born is a member of Central Heights MB Church in Abbotsford, B.C.

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Last modified May 4, 2000.

© 2000 Mennonite Brethren Herald.
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