the story of Easter:

Today marks a very special day, Good Friday. Nick and i were talking about how the story of Jesus sometimes can become so watered-down and basic - like those felt-board stories you were taught in Sunday school. sidenote: i loved putting the little felt characters (flannelgraphs, thanks Shannon!) on the board though - anyone know what i'm talking about? ;) Sometimes the story about how Jesus came, died, and rose from the dead starts sounding like a fairytale or some kind of tall tale. (someone rising from the dead? ok, if that happened today, i know that'd be crazy. i can see if you're skeptical) But when i remember this is true, this really happened, and there are so many accounts recorded that acknowledge Jesus did exist, it boggles my mind and i am overcome with emotions. To think Jesus was once on this earth - people saw Him, they were healed by Him, they were loved by Him and He died for you and me, i am humbled and brought to my knees in gratitude for the One who wants our hearts. and our hearts are the least we can give for our God who loved us enough to save us though we are so undeserving of it.

If you're open, curious, or just wondering what this day is all about for believers of Jesus and would like to read about what this Good Friday is all about, one account recorded can be found in Matthew, chapter 26 & 27.

Nick and i are in Toronto but have tried to be intentional on reflecting during this Holy week. Actually, a lot of businesses are closed here for Good Friday and there's something really cool about that - respecting this day.

Whether you believe this or not, thanks for reading. i do believe the audience i have through this blog is a blessing from the Lord and i can't not share the Good News with you! Though you may be turned off or not continue to read this blog after posts like this, i can't be ashamed! But my hope & prayer is that you wouldn't be upset, but that you may be encouraged. my intention is not to offend but i have seen, witnessed, and experienced such great love - i want all of you to know this love. agape. a love unlike any other. a love we can't fully comprehend. this very love is what sent Jesus to pay the ultimate price, His life. Today we reflect on what Jesus came to do years ago. it was a dark day in heaven and on earth the day Jesus died. but darkness is always overcome by the light. Happy Good Friday dear friends. Can't wait to celebrate with you on Sunday.

photo by Hillsong United. found via Ardent Overflow.