Easter, much like Christmas was introduced as a way for Christians to celebrate and enjoy holiday festivities at the same time the pagans were.  Because there is no way of finding the actual dates of things like the birth of Jesus and the death and resurrection of Jesus, church leaders chose days that were near the dates of these other holidays.

Thousands  of years ago, under the rule of Constantine, it was established that Easter would fall on first Sunday after the full moon.  Over the years the holiday has evolved into what it is today.  Colored eggs and the Easter Bunny as part of the celebration, has been a tradition in Europe for centuries.  People exchanged colored eggs as a celebration of Spring and new life.  In many countries the eggs are a symbol of our rebirth.  That rebirth can only come through Jesus.

The Easter Bunny is not a modern invention.    In the 1500’s the Easter Bunny was  used to help children understand the death and resurrection of Jesus.  They can’t really understand the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus.  This tradition was brought over to America by the Germans, but was not widely accepted until after the Civil War.

Today Easter has become nearly as commercialized as Christmas.  Fancy Easter baskets, stuffed animals, outside toys and lots of chocolate.  We have chocolate eggs and bunnies, crosses and chicks.  So many sweet treats for our children to enjoy.  We have eggs filled everything from fruits and nuts, to carmel and peanut butter.  There really is something for everyone.

So, is there any real harm done in letting our children enjoy the Easter Bunny and some colored eggs?  I don’t think so, as long as the true story is also shared and given more importance than all the other stuff.  These things bring fun and excitement to a holiday that is difficult for little ones to understand.  The can barely understand death, much less resurrection.  They will grow to undrstand the true celebration of Jesus’ love and sacrifice.

We have more important things to conquer than to attack colored eggs and chocolate bunnies.  Relax and have some fum with your children and grandchildren.