In most years the great feast of the Resurrection of the Lord occurs in April; in some others, it occurs in March. Why the difference? Easter is a movable feast.
Due to the ancients traveling by the light of the moon from great distances to celebrate the great festival, the Council of Nicea, in 325, said that Easter should fall on the first Sunday after the first full moon of spring to allow the pilgrims the maximum amount of moonlight for travel. So, with this decision, Easter could fall anytime between March 22 and April 25th and must be celebrated on a Sunday in accordance with the Scriptures having Christ rising from the dead the day after the Jewish Sabbath.
Can you just envision travelers of old, making their way by the light of the moon, anticipating their reunions with family and friends for a joyous celebration of Christ's redeeming gift?
This is Holy Week, for we in the Pillar household, it is starting with an early morning thunderstorm and a raining day. Possibly to remind us that from the stormy days of sinfulness come the anticipation of sunshine and joy in Christ's unconditional love and devotion toward His people.
1 comment:
Well, that's certainly one way to put a positive spin on today's heavy rain. The thunder woke me up very early this morning... a sign, perhaps?
I knew that the Church hide quite a debate over the correct date for Easter, but I didn't realize that the need for moonlight was a factor! Interesting...
Have a blessed Holy Week!
Evan
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