He is Risen!

Thursday night we observed a Christian Passover Seder. Jewish things don't interest me much, possibly because I am on the outskirts of people who are blindly mad for anything Jewish. It wasn't what I would have chosen to do but it was interesting. Most amazing to me was how seriously my children took each step. Ben and Kyri ate their "bitter herbs" (celery and lettuce) and unleavened bread (tough as nails) and lamb (I skipped this) all very solemnly. Ben typically won't touch lettuce or celery so I just sat there amazed, watching it all.

Last night, our Good Friday service involved a lot of artist's renditions of the events of Good Friday in a slide show. Everleigh became animated each and every time a slide depicting Jesus was shown. But the crucifixion scenes had her pointing and babbling. She seemed genuinely moved and I would have given anything to know what was happening in the heart of my16-month old.

I have never seen my children as excited as they are for this Easter. They have Easter "baskets" from their Nana and Grandpa which is part of it, and friends coming after church for dinner and an egg coloring/hunt. But my heart was moved when Ben wanted to read to Kyrie about the Miracles of Jesus last night. He would explain to her any words he thought she wouldn't know. When he read about Jesus calming the storm, he said, "This is one of my favorite's."  He's also settled on a favorite disciple--Andrew, whom I consider a very good choice.

I know that faith in children is new, and young. But faith that is practiced grows. And I remember my faith at Ben's age and know that what he is learning and seeking is real, precious, and will be a source of strength in the years ahead.

He is Risen. Happy Easter.