Most of us have heard of “Christmas in July,” which is an unofficial holiday often celebrated by retailers to re-live the festivities of Christmas. It can also reflect our yearning for cold winter days amid the heat of the summer months. But have you ever heard of “Easter in July?” (I doubt it, since I made it up.)
I’m one of the few members in our household who likes the smell of Easter lilies. When I smell an Easter lily and see the pure white flowers that seem to be trumpeting “Christ is risen!” it brings back warm memories of Easter when I was growing up.
It’s been almost 10 years since I bought an Easter lily plant. I decided that I should give that plant an opportunity to join the other flowers in our backyard. Now, instead of just a few flowers, we’re treated to more than 50 flowers every July…What a treat! (Our God is the great multiplier!)
At Easter time, we celebrate the paschal mystery…the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. And, we can extend this great celebration throughout the year by making every weekend a paschal mystery experience. Begin each Friday with a mini-Lenten observance in preparation for Sunday’s Mass – – a little Easter celebration. We are an Alleluia people…Not only at Easter, but all year long!
Blessings to you and your family,
Deacon Mark