Eastertide. The word itself sounds old-fashioned, doesn’t it? If you prefer, you can refer to this 50-day season simply as “the season of Easter.” The point is, no matter what we call it—if we remember to call it anything—is that the early church knew that the full impact of Easter could hardly be experienced in one 24-hour period. They gave us 50 days, from now through Pentecost on June 4 when we will receive our new Confirmation class and celebrate the sacraments of baptism and communion.

Eastertide is a season that offers some time and space for us to grow spiritually. As our confirmands continue to learn, pray and prepare, so, too, we all are called to live deep into the power and joy that is the Resurrection. There is so much contained in that three word Easter proclamation: “Christ is Risen!” In our baptism, we affirm that we are all “incorporated into Christ’s mighty acts of salvation.” In prayer, ask God to reveal to you what this Good News means—for your personal life as a disciple of our Risen Lord and also for your witness in the world as part of Christ’s body, the church.

Joy! Peace! Mercy! Righteousness! Courage! LIFE! Gifts of God for the people of God.
Eastertide blessings to one and all.