ALT-2 Ways to Observe Resurrection Sunday
Resurrection Day falls on the same day as Easter Sunday. However, Easter actually originated as a pagan holiday, which Christians later adopted and integrated with their observations of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. In more recent years increased commercialization has further clouded the meaning behind why Christians celebrate Easter, so manyChristians and churches have turned to calling their observance "Resurrection Day." There are several ways to actually celebrate Resurrection Day, including any new traditions that you may start.
Keep up old traditions:
Most popular with the masses are the old Easter traditions. Brought to the United States from Germany, the Easter Bunny visits and leaves behind a basket of colorful Easter eggs and other goodies for children. Easter egg hunts are quite popular in various countries. All of these traditions actually stem from the pagan fertility rituals, which have been in existence since the second century. Since eggs also represent new life, use the eggs as a way to transition focus on the gift from Christ.
Compromise:
Although old traditions and modern societal pressure makes it very difficult, those who celebrate Resurrection Day are making a conscious effort and a movement toward dropping activities that are not related to the death and resurrection of Christ. As a compromise, some Christian hide away Easter eggs that are filled or decorated with scriptural verses that focus on the gifts and promises that come through Christ. Keep in mind it is difficult to change old standing traditions, and sometimes a gradual change works best.
Go to church:
Easter Sunday or Resurrection Sunday is more widely attended than any other Sunday. Many churches offer additional services to accommodate and encourage the increased attendance. Sunrise services are quite popular among many and are usually offered outside and sometimes are in different locations such as a garden or vista.
During Resurrection services, jubilant hymns are offered as praise and worship. Depending on the denomination of church, you will see anything from a procession with jeweled crosses to dramatizations of the story of how Jesus rose from his sealed tomb. Trumpets are sometimes added to emphasize the proclamation - Christ has risen!
As it is written in the Bible, the resurrected Jesus appeared several times to various people and visited his Apostles. During his last visit, Jesus promised that he would be with us always, and directed his followers to make disciples from all nations. This scripture is often used as a challenge and reminder to modern followers to renew their faith and to further commit to missions and evangelistic works.
Spend time with your family and friends:
It is not uncommon for families to continue the celebratory spirit by gathering for meals following church services. This is a wonderful time of the year to have a family reunion and connect with family members that you don't get to see as often. Some church groups and families make it a tradition to watch movies that depict the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.
Erect a cross:
Resurrection Day is the day when Christians recognize and commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. As recorded in the New Testament of the Bible, the resurrection of Christ followed three days after his crucifixion. In spite of the name, rememberingGood Friday, the day that Jesus was crucified is a somber and often difficult task. In sharp contrast, Resurrection Day is a celebration of victory, joy and renewal of spirit.
Erect one or three crosses in a prominent place on church grounds on your front lawns to remind everyone of the sacrifice Jesus made for all of us. The reason some choose to use three crosses is to acknowledge that two other men were hung along side of Jesus the day he died.
Adorn the single or middle cross with a purple cloth, also called a Pall during Lent and/or on Good Friday. Some replace the Pall with a black drape on Good Friday. Regardless, either color should be removed and replaced by a white cloth on Resurrection Day. The significance of purple is that it was a color only available to royalty and priests, and Jesus was known as the "King of the Jews." For those that practiceLentpurple represents repentance. White symbolizes purity, cleansing and the linen wrap that Jesus left behind in the tomb.
In an attempt to redirect focus away from Easter bunnies, candy, baskets and new clothes, more Christians are returning to Resurrection Day. Make the day a meaningful day and important day in your and your family's life by choosing the methods that best work for all of you.
