By Julie Beers

Easter has always been a special time for our family. In 1987, our daughter was born on Palm Sunday, and we got to bring her home on Easter Sunday. What a blessing to bring this tiny baby home on the day we, as Christians, get to celebrate new life.

Starting the next year, my mom (“Nanny” to the kids) began painting Easter eggs every year until they were 18. She would paint an egg that would go with something special that happened in their life that year, such as starting kindergarten, getting their driver’s licenses, going on a mission’s trip to El Salvador, playing hockey and flag football, and starting a new job. These eggs are truly treasured by her four grandchildren.

Now I have three grandchildren, and I love making Easter baskets for them. I always put bubbles in their baskets, and we blow the bubbles to heaven to the loved ones that are no longer with us here on earth. I also always give them play dough (clay) because I’m reminded of the Bible verse that says, “God is the potter, we are the clay” (Isaiah 64:4 KJV). The verse reads, “But now, O LORD, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you, our potter; and we all are the work of your hand.” I feel this is a great message to my grandchildren about how God is shaping their lives to follow Him.

Easter—and their Easter baskets—will continue to hold a special place in our family!

Julie Beers is a grandmother, avid crafter, and the Donor Relations & Volunteer Engagement Coordinator at Worship Anew.