— Spiritual Perspectives —
Was it a Morning Like This?

Kathy Coleman

By Kathy Coleman
Special to the Independent

Praise the Lord? It’s Easter? And “Alleluias” are everywhere? Alleluia rainbows. Alleluia skies. Alleluia sung across the land.

Yet, when we think of that very first Easter morning, “Alleluia Joy” was probably not the first emotion expressed by the followers of Jesus.

After experiencing the unimaginable pain of the previous days, finding the empty tomb could only result in sadness, confusion, even doubt for Jesus’ friends.

But then – there He was! Jesus! In the flesh! Jesus! Smiling! Beckoning! Loving! Alive! Jesus! What an “Alleluia” morning that became. It was everything Jesus had ever promised – and more. Too good to be true – but it was.

This friend, this teacher, this shepherd, this JESUS, by His very life, death, and resurrection, had conquered sin and death once and for all. This Savior, this Redeemer, this Light of the World, this JESUS, as in the beginning, continues to shine on in darkness – a darkness that did not and will not ever overcome Him. My Lord, what a morning!

Was it a morning like this? A morning like the one we experience today – right here, right now?

It has been said that every Sunday should truly be a “little Easter,” a reminder of that first Easter morning and just how wonderful it was. I myself take this thought a bit further. I believe that every morning can be a “little Easter,” reminding us of the countless miracles of love God showers upon us each and every day.

Yes, miracles. I believe in miracles with all my heart. “Big miracles” are usually easy to recognize. “Small miracles” are not as easy – depending on how we choose to define them. I call miracles God’s “Love Signs.” Everything from celebrating the gift of healing to offering forgiveness even before the offender apologizes – if ever. Everything from a beautiful sunset “rainin’ fire in the sky” to a baby’s touch.

Everything this is good! From God! Miracles! Love Signs!
The supreme Love Sign, the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Our Lord, Jesus Christ is deserving of constant, undying praise. Resurrection Morning! Was it a morning like this? Like this morning – today? Each and every day, as soon as we wake, the miracles of God’s creation start “showing off.” I admit that I have failed to recognize many of them. But, I have been aware of more than I have missed. And never forget the Love Signs that Jesus actually invites us to take part in. He uses everything and everyone. That means you and me.

One of my very favorite songs describing the joy of that first Easter asks the questions: “Did the grass sing? Did the earth rejoice to feel Him again?” Just imagine the grass and earth engaged in conversation like this. After sharing the excitement that Jesus is truly back, the earth exclaims: “I recognized those familiar feet walking upon me once again. It was JESUS! I felt it. I knew it. I believed it! Alleluia!”

Tonight we celebrate the vigil of the greatest, most wonderful day in the Christian world – the Vigil of Easter. Tomorrow, because of Jesus, we will wake to a new dawn, new life, new beginnings, new possibilities, new Love Signs, new miracles.

Miracles are Jesus’ ordinary mode of operation. They come very naturally to Him.

Tomorrow, when we rise, if we can sing along with Jesus:

It isn’t that unusual
When everything is beautiful.
It’s just another ordinary miracle today.

If we can sing that, then we can shout this… That first Easter! It was a morning like this!

Kathy Coleman, originally from Louisiana, has served as a volunteer in the Diocese of Gallup for more than 30 years. Messages for Coleman can be left at (505) 722-5485.

This column is written by area residents, representing different faith communities, who share their ideas about bringing a spiritual perspective into our daily lives and community issues. For information about contributing a guest column, contact Elizabeth Hardin-Burrola at The Independent: (505) 863-6811 ext. 218 or lizreligion01@yahoo.com.