Easter in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic
Signs of resurrection during of a pandemic
On Easter Sunday 2020, I posted this on social media. It was during the Coronavirus pandemic and Easter was being spent in social isolation.
“What a different Easter! After watching the sunrise service from Lake Junaluska, I went outside and this bloom caught my eye. I looked up close. Then as I wandered my backyard, other signs of new life became apparent. Signs of resurrection are all around…even during this strangest of Easters. This is probably more like the first Easter felt. Love and peace to you all! “
– Alice Culbreath, Easter Greeting 2020
This is the bloom which initially caught my attention. Because it’s bright blossoms stood out among the lush greenery, I walked outside to take a closer look. Once there, I realized how beautiful it was up close and took another photo. As I was walking back across the patio, another flower caught my eye. This continued until I walked completely around the house and had 7 gorgeous blooms captured on my camera. How could I never have noticed this before? I hadn’t planted these blooming plants. All of this was just nature doing it’s thing. It was here all along but I wasn’t looking for it. I was too busy. Signs of resurrection were waiting for me to notice. My eyes noticed different things this Easter in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. Life was slow enough to see the little things.
A strange kind of Easter
Growing up as a pastor’s kid, Easter was sort of a big deal. My family attended several services beginning at sunrise. Each year, my grandmother made a new dress for me to wear. I anticipated seeing the lilies on the altar and hearing the special music the choir performed. All my friends would be there even if they didn’t attend regularly. This special day was anticipated all spring. I knew my favorite parts of Holy Week. There was such comfort in the traditions. As I fondly remembered Easters past, I wondered if at some point I became too comfortable?
