April 12 Meditation

“May the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ be blessed! On account of his vast mercy, he has given us new birth. You have been born anew into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” I Peter 1:3

My bleeding hearts are starting to bloom. Generally, I look for them in early May, this year they are cropping up a bit early. I love their heart-shaped petals hanging down from delicate leaves and stems. Their early Spring appearance gives the perception of fragility. In truth, they are quite hearty during unpredictable weather.

I’m particularly fond of bleeding hearts due to their appearance during Eastertide. When Christ hung on the cross many thought they had vanquished him. Exposed him as weak and ineffective because he would not and did not save himself. Instead, he chose to let his heart bleed. He chose to bleed out love for all – even the ones seeking to destroy him. Jesus held nothing back making way for resurrection and new life.

Often being told one has a “bleeding heart”, is not a compliment. A “bleeding heart” is a criticism for someone who is naïve, weak and a softy. A person out of touch with the ways of the world. Yet, Jesus shows us a bleeding heart, an open mind, an outstretched body carries far more saving strength than one who constricts. Jesus shows us this is not fragile but the very essence of life itself.

Jesus took what was appeared to be the final blow of death and transformed it into new life. We are caught up in his new life. We are a resurrection people through the love of Christ.

Too often we equate resurrection with the miracle of bringing someone back from the dead. Yet, resurrection occurs every day in our lives. Every time we choose to live abundantly in whatever situation life presents us with, we are living as a resurrection people.

Jesus had to let go of everything on the cross. He shows us we can let go of all which prevents us from abundant life. Resurrection helps us identify what we cling to more than God and allows us to let it flow out of us. Only in the emptying can the love fueled, grace filled Spirit of God take up residence within us. It’s Spring cleaning for the soul.

The earth is coming alive around us during this season. We too can come alive through the witness of the risen Christ.

In the name of the Risen Christ,

Rev. Wendy