From "Merry Easter" by Frederica Methewes-Green (a reading in my Lenten book)
"It's that time of year again, when school children are coloring pictures of Jesus hanging from a cross, and shop owners fill their windows with gaily colored cutouts of the Flogging at the Pillar. In the malls everyone is humming along with seasonal hits on the sound system, like "O Sacred Head, Sore Wounded" (did you hear the Chipmunks' version?). Car dealers are promoting Great Big Empty Tomb Size discounts on Toyotas. Yes, it's beginning to look a lot like Easter..."
The sarcasm in her words is hard to miss. She goes on to say, "Somehow we just don't make the same boisterous fun of Holy Week that we do of Christmas. No one plans to have a holly jolly Easter."
As a mom who is home most of the day, music plays a big role in the mood of our household. My iTunes playlists are labeled by the type of day or activity: hard days, dark days, kids worship mix, dance mix, good morning, God loves me... I have loads of Christmas music and several different playlists dedicated to those as well. It wasn't until a few years ago that I made a playlist for Lent.
I find myself reflecting on Christ's sacrifice while I'm vacuuming or his triumphal entry into Jerusalem as I do the dishes and prepare lunch. Music has a way of continually bringing my mind back to what is important. The songs become my prayers as I sing along.
This is why I've created a the "Songs of Easter" series. It's not really like you can just search "Easter carols" on iTunes, right? I wanted to share the many modern and ancient songs that powerfully remind us of Christ's sacrifice.
So, make a mix of songs that remind you of the cross, Jesus' sacrifice and the joyful resurrection. They don't all have to be slow, mournful tunes. Although, be sure to put some thoughtful ones in mix.
My Lent mix has gotten longer over the years. It starts with Hosanna and songs that remind me of Christ's entry into Jerusalem....songs in the middle focus on the cross, His sacrifice....and songs at the end sing praises of his victory over death.
If you are looking for some suggestions, listen to the Songs of Easter or check out my playlist.
Let's fill our homes with music that reminds us of the season.
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