He is Risen

"He is not hear; he has risen, just as he said." 

—Matthew 28:6

Have a blessed Easter,

Starr

Hallmark of Spring

North Carolina is adopting the look and fragrance of spring. I love the hope and new life this season ushers in after the long winter. The flowering dogwood tree is a hallmark of our state—its blossom, our state flower. 

It's doubtful the dogwood tree was used for the cross of Christ as suggested in the well-known legend of the dogwood, but this beautiful flowering tree blooms during the Easter season and its distinctive blossoms remind Christians of Christ's death and resurrection. 

The tree’s pink or white blossoms have two long and two short petals that form the shape of a cross. Each petal contains a red-stained indentation representative of the nail prints and the blood of Christ. The cluster of stamens in the center of the bloom symbolizes his crown of thorns.

As you breathe in the beauty and fragrance of the dogwoods this spring, know that the story of Christ's death and resurrection is far from legendary. From his suffering came forgiveness and new life for all who believe and receive him as  Lord and Savior.

"For Christ died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit” (1 Peter 3:18, NASB).

Now it's your turn: Share an early Easter memory or tradition.

I always welcome your comments.

Have a blessed Easter, 

Starr

Legend of the Dogwood Tree:  https://goo.gl/1vjH3t