Matthew 28:16-21(NRSV)

Thought:

Easter has come and gone. Candy is on sale. Half off. Maybe more. The pastel colors will give way to the bright colors of spring & summer. By the end of the week we will all be tired of eating boiled eggs. Easter has come. Easter has gone. Or has it?

Is Easter just a once a year, one time event? Churches expend seemingly endless energy at Easter time. And then, Monday, life seems to go back to what it was before. Or does it? Stores, trying to get the greatest turn out bring in folks dressed like the Easter bunny for pictures and hand out goodies. Is Easter really a one and done moment?

There seems to be more interest, at least around here, with what is going on in the church. During our season of lent we are called to re-connect with God, turning from and turning to. Turning from the things in our life that tend to control us and take our focus off of being one of God's children and having the focus rest on who we think we are or want to be. So, after 40 days of preparation for Easter, it comes and what next?

Get up and keep on going!

Just because lent is over doesn't mean you can or need to check your brain. HELLO! All of those folks who have been watching from the fringe, they HAVE been watching. So what will they see next, now that Easter has come, and it is Tuesday?

I would suggest that means Easter did make a difference. And, as it has made a difference, it is surely not a time to check out. In fact, once Easter makes a difference in your life, once you experience the grace that comes to us from Christ, you realize living in the Easter moment is really no different than breathing. Just as breathing is kinda necessary for living, so is Easter. Think about it. From The Message:
The moment they saw Him they worshiped Him. Some, though, held back, not sure about worship, about risking themselves totally.
Jesus, undeterred, went right ahead and gave His charge: "God authorized and commanded me to commission you: Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then instruct them in the practice of all I have commanded you. I'll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age."

So, don't sit back now that Easter has passed. Certainly don't "hold back". go ... train ... mark ... and know you aren't alone.

Breathe.

Prayer: 

   Gracious God, we live in moments.  We live in the moments that come at us, sometimes staying with moments longer than we need, sometimes not long enough.  Help us to live in the Easter moment, driven, compelled and convinced that we must share the Gospel just like we breath.  Free us to serve and love. Thank You for all You have done and all You continue to do. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.