Good Friday invites us to pause and reflect on the depth of love poured out for all of us.  It is a day of reverence and stillness, a quiet remembering of the sacrifice Jesus gave with His life.

On that first Easter Sunday long ago, Mary Magdalene and Mary, mother of James, came to the tomb to find the stone rolled away and empty. (Mark 16:1-4, Luke 24:1-3)

Easter is not only a moment in history, it’s an invitation and reminder that no matter how dark these days are, we can be filled with hope and assurance that the resurrection is real.  It gives a glorious, joy-filled promise of the triumph of life over death.

Here are three ideas for your weekend:

1.  Create a space at home.

• Light a candle.  Place a few blooms in a small jar.
• Sit with a warm cup of tea and your Bible.
• Open a window to feel the gentle morning breeze and hear the birds singing.

This space doesn’t have to be complicated.  It can be anything you want.  It is completely yours.

2.  Create a quiet time. 

• Spend some time this weekend quietly praying, journaling, or simply sitting.

For journaling, here is a question to reflect on:

What does living with a heart rooted in peace and hope look like to you?
 

3.  Create and share a simple Easter brunch.

Here is a brunch recipe idea:

Lemony Spring Quinoa Salad

1.  Toss cooked quinoa with fresh spring veggies

      - asparagus, cucumber, radish, etc.

2.  Sprinkle fresh herbs like dill or parsley

3.  Add a light lemon vinaigrette

4.  Top with either or both:(optional)

         - Avocado - sliced or cubed

         - Roasted chickpeas for heartiness

This is a simple, fresh, beautiful salad for your Easter brunch or anytime.

Here is a simple blessing to share:

May this meal be a celebration of life given and received.

A reminder of love that never ends.

And a taste of the joy that resurrection brings.

May our hearts be full of gratitude.
Our words seasoned with grace,
And our lives reflect the love of Jesus.

This weekend, when you are at church, in your kitchen preparing a meal, or sitting quietly with the rising sun, I pray you feel the deep peace and the glorious hope Easter brings.

Love and blessings,

Coach Angela Schmidt