He is down off that cross...He has risen from that tomb

for some this was just another Sunday. for others, it was anything but. in fact, the most miraculous and glorious mystery was epitomized today as Christians across the globe celebrated their Savior's victory over death and fulfillment of His messianic promise. celebration of Christ's Resurrection is not just reserved to Easter Sunday. it is meant for every day, every moment, every encounter. what I believe we should reflect upon this Easter and every subsequent one is His gift and the price He paid for it. if we're already doing this, well then, keep doing it. it cannot hurt; it can only make us stronger. for if we don't know-and don't desire-what it is that we are striving for (i don't know about you, but i sure as heck want eternal salvation), then what's the point? Resurrection Sunday reminds us of the fact that even if you hold onto a sliver of hope, you hold onto a piece of the promise. oh and if that isn't comforting enough, know that God is on your side offering his hand for you to grab whenever you are ready to do so.

holy mAdNeSs

this is my favorite time of the year. the snow is beginning to melt (except in cleveland) and the birds are migrating north once again. let's not forget the boys of summer are more than half-way through their training. then, of course, there is another field of 64 college basketball teams from all over the country who have earned their right to DANCE. as i pick and choose which #12 seeds will go deep into the tourney and hope and pray that my final four picks will surive the first two rounds, i realize how great (and nerve-racking) it would be to actually coach/play on that stage. i also begin to consider how easily fans of basketball can become religiously glued to the tv set over these next two weeks of march mayhem, and i think to myself that i do not want to be one of them. of course, it would be nice to catch a few of the earlier games over a beer or two with my father/friends, but to miss the holiest week of the year and the greatest miracle that ever was would be truly disgraceful. this is why my family is coming to town and keeping me focused on the important things in life rather than letting my time slip away worrying and focusing on all the wrong things. all in all, i don't want to MISS IT. that IT is what you make of it...happy holy week