"Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?" (2 Corinthians 13:5).

This past week felt like Spring Break 2.0. Maybe that was due to my birthday being on Thursday, Easter on Sunday, and having warm weather with the sun shining every day. I admit I skipped a few classes last week, but I had a good excuse! My mom drove down to see me and hey, it’s not every day you get to see your mom.

Along with the majority of Southern Baptists, my family and I went to church on Sunday morning. We celebrated Easter by attending a sunrise service. We shook hands with those sitting near us, sang hymns, listened to a sermon, prayed, and after, we went to eat breakfast at a cute, little restaurant. Does this sound familiar to you? Perhaps. But why? It is because we both have faith that Jesus is the Son of God? Or is it because that’s just tradition?

2017 years ago Jesus Christ was crucified and put to death on a cross, yet three days later, he walked out of the tomb. I’m sure you must have heard that before. And maybe you know that Easter is the national holiday that celebrates Jesus rising from the grave. But there’s also something else that people associate with Easter. Pretty dresses, bunny rabbits, and chocolate eggs. Of course, businesses market their products for this day, after all, they only wish to maximize profit. But, on a personal level, regarding you and your relationship with Jesus, has Easter become more of a tradition?

I wore a dress to church. My mom always said, “Wear your best, because you are going to God’s home”. We went to a popular restaurant after the service too, which is something people popularly do. We went to church on Easter and celebrated like others across the country. But, I woke up and went to church with the intention to praise God with my family and my church family. My Easter may have been traditional but it wasn’t a habit.

My mom says, “Easter is the holiest day.” Not because it’s the Sunday when churches are filled most. And it’s not the holiest day because people gather to celebrate with their family. It’s the holiest day because it celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Our culture has morphed Easter Sunday into a day when you dress in pastels and florals to attend church and then brunch. There’s nothing wrong with wearing a pretty dress to church and going out to eat. But what are your intentions on Easter Sunday? We don't go to church just to look good and have a good time. Did you feel a tug on your heart to be closer to God, or did you just check a box for this year? Jesus died for your sins and He rose from the grave. If you want to learn more, the church doors are open every Sunday. You're always welcome, not just on Easter.