Let Jesus Rise...

​It is a time when we are all being called into our tombs.  Many are afraid to enter in fully– for tombs are dark and hold the heaviness of grief and death.  Yet it was only through Mary Magdalene’s willingness to step in completely and anoint the body of our Lord, that she was able to encounter the resurrected Christ.  In the same way, it is through our courageous surrender to enter into the tombs of our homes and hearts that we will meet the risen Lord.
 
Where is Jesus wanting to meet you and resurrect in your life today?  Is it in the relationships with your children who are now homeschooling right in front of you?  Focus there.  Ask for Jesus’ mercy and grace and enter in deeply to the call of loving one each other. Play games, laugh, pray, work together, talk with one another – listen – really listen.  In an age where depression in kids is at an all-time high, your children need you.  They need to know that they mean more than just grades and home runs.  They need to know that they matter- just because they are made in the image and likeness of God. Love them with the love of Jesus.  He is in your heart. Let Jesus rise!
 
How about with your spouse? Is your relationship with your husband feeling dead?  Focus on surprising him today with an act or word of love.  Continue that.  Let Jesus rise!
 
Are moth balls collecting on old clothes and mice finding a happy home among your pile of stuff in your garage?  Clean, clear and give away.  Let Jesus rise!
 
How about in your heart?  Is there a place of darkness, sorrow, hurt or fear that lies deep inside? Go there. Enter in. Journal about it.  Talk to a friend.  Be not afraid. Invite Jesus in to heal and love you.  Let Jesus rise!
 
This time of quarantine is an opportunity for new life. For God IS with us!  He IS risen!  Let him rise in your homes and in your hearts and experience the gift and the joy of His resurrection.

Tips:

1. With all of my six kids home now, we needed resurrection in managing our home in a new way.  I made a new "Home Management" chart where all daily jobs are listed and shared- kitchen clean up, taking care of animals, laundry, cooking.  This helps our home to run smoothly, fosters shared responsibility, learning and working together as a family. 

2. Some of my big kids needed resurrection in their cooking skills and I needed to die to being the main cook. We developed "Cooking Teams".  Each team takes a turn being the main chef.  Everyone gives me their recipe lists on Sunday evening.  We write our weekly menu on the menu board.  I shop on Monday. We are enjoying great meals as a family, the kids are feeling good about learning how to cook, and we are gaining about 10 pounds each. Oh well - that can come off after quarantine!

3.  We are resurrecting our home.  We had a need to clean out and paint.  We are putting aside piles of clothes and household items to goto Good Will. We are painting one room at a time and my artistic daughters are enjoying picking out colors, helping to scrape old wallpaper and paint.  

4. We are resurrecting Jesus more fully through prayer as a family.  Every night after dinner, we pray.  This can look differently based on your faith background.  We are currently praying the Divine Mercy Chaplet Novena as a family.  We also just simply read Scripture, a reflection or share intentions. A rosary group was also developed in our parish which we can pray via technology at 8pm each night.  

5. We are resurrecting relationships with one another.  We are playing games - board games, cards, family football and basketball games, having great discussions, reading books out loud with our little ones.  We are spending time as a couple - a bonfire and a glass of wine, waking up early to coffee and prayer.  Talking and sharing. I am loving this time.

6. We are resurrecting relationships with extended family and neighbors - we are reaching out to elderly neighbors in need, writing letters to grandparents, having zoom meeting with cousins, aunts and uncles and grandparents. 

It is so nice not running kids around and being so busy. My husband and I are going to really discern what we continue signing up for and what we take out - so that Jesus can continue to be alive in our homes and in our hearts.  Happy Easter everyone!