Last weekend we looked at this startling image of Jesus, Mary and the cloud of witnessess around them from an alterpiece painting by Raphael. The mystery behind this painting (why do Mary, Jesus and the cloud of witnesses seem so disturbed by what they are looking at?) was revealed to be a crucifix at the back of the church this painting was commissioned for. As we look toward Jesus' death on the cross and his amazing resurrection from the dead, how does it make you feel? What are you doing to prepare yourself for this celebration? Many times we anticipate a holiday like this and when it's over wonder why it really didn't impact us much. That may be because some of the greatest experiences to be found from a holiday like this is actually found in preparing for it. Many Christian traditions begin fasting prior to the holiday. The days before Easter are as meaninful as the holiday itself.
Have you ever tried anything like that? We would suggest that you experiment with fasting this Easter season.
