Planning for A Life-Changing Moment

A few days ago, there was a very large lottery drawing in a multi-state lottery.  All media outlets were lit up with conversation and speculation over what people would do if they won the $640,000,000 at stake.  The fury lasted days.  People made plans for where they’d go.  People made lists of what they’d do.  It was clearly recognized that, for most people, winning this money would be a life-changing moment.  Preparations were under way.  The world – well, the states that participate in the drawing, anyway – awaited the moment when a winner would be crowned.  Hundreds of thousands of people held their collective breath as the numbers were drawn, one-by-one.  Who would the winner be?

Yesterday over ten thousand babies were born in the United States.  For most of them, their families spent months planning and preparing a space for them.  Doctors were consulted, rooms were painted, furniture was put together.  Parties were held to celebrate the coming of a new child.  People made plans for where they’d go.  People made lists of what they’d do.   It is recognized that, for most people, the birth of a baby is a life-changing moment.  Preparations were under way.  The families awaited the moment when a child would be born.  Who would this child be?

Last year, over 14% of the population moved.  People were seeking a better life somewhere else, a place to start over, a place to continue to grow.  Boxes were packed, agents were consulted, papers were signed.  New schools, new dry cleaners, new gas stations were sought.   People made plans for where they’d go.  People made lists of what they’d do.   It is recognized that, for most people, moving can be a life-changing moment.  Preparations were under way.  The families awaited the moments of “good-bye” and “hello” that would follow them.  Who would they meet in this new place?

So many events in our life are preceded by thoughtful preparations.  The idea of approaching a life-changing event without arrangements ahead of time is thought to be silly and imprudent.  But, here we are, just days away from a truly life-changing moment – the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus – and how prepared are we? 

Have you thought about your life and the decisions you’ve made.  Have you admitted your faults to yourself – owned up to who you really are?  Have you asked for forgiveness and help to become a better person?  Have you reveled in the light that surrounds you today?  Have you readied yourself to hear the crucifixion story on Friday and to be left in darkness?

Easter Sunday is a beautiful day of celebration, but there are many preparations to be made before then.  Don’t arrive at this life-changing moment unprepared.