What is Easter really about: Easter eggs or Jesus Christ?

What is Easter Really About: Easter Eggs or Jesus Christ?
It is fair to say that Easter has become synonymous with Easter eggs more so than its association with Jesus Christ. So, what is Easter and why is it celebrated? Let's start with the Easter eggs and its possible origins since it's the most prevalent thing we are presented with during Easter.

Origins of Easter Eggs
Easter eggs has its origins in paganism. It comes from an Eastern European pagan practice, where eggs were seen as a symbol of regeneration linked to the Spring season. The early Christians adopted this practice and adapted it to the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This marked the beginnings of Easter eggs being used for Easter celebrations.

The custom of Painting Easter Eggs
The custom of dyeing and painting Easter eggs dates back to the ancient times. It was part of the Eastern Orthodox and Western traditions. The Christian Church during their Holy week, would not allow the consumption of meat or animal-based products which included eggs. Therefore, eggs laid by chickens during this season were decorated to show they were Holy week eggs. This was done to distinguish the eggs that were not meant for consumption and it led to the introduction of egg decoration as part of Easter celebration.

The Easter Egg Hunt
The Easter egg hunt possibly originated from Germany in the 16th century when Martin Luther, a protestant reformer organised an event. At this event, men would hide eggs for women and children to find in recognition of Christ’s resurrection. Particularly highlighting the resurrection scene where women found Christ's empty tomb and used hollowed-out empty egg shells to depict Christ's empty tomb. Easter egg hunts has since grown in popularity and is widely practiced by Christians in various countries today.

Though Easter eggs gives a nod to the resurrection of Jesus, it does not tell the full story of the gospel. Not only that, it originated from paganism and is not based on the Bible. Jesus is the reason for Easter. He died on the cross for us, handling all our sins, along with everything that separated us from God. What Jesus did restored our relationship with God, giving us life eternal and making us recipients of God's Holy Spirit. So that we can achieve God's plans for our lives. That knowledge, must never be forgotten. Jesus said this in John 11:25-26:

"I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die."
John 11:25-26

Jesus is the only one who can give life after death. A privilege that is available to all who believes in him. This is what we call the good news or the gospel and is the reason why we celebrate Easter.  This Easter, let's remember that Jesus died for us and celebrate that he rose again, giving us the gift of eternal life with God the Father.

Have a Happy Easter!