by Linda Ann Nickerson

Created on: April 06, 2007   Last Updated: May 14, 2007

THE CROSS

The cross is the universal symbol of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ as the divine sacrifice for the sin of all mankind. This icon of ancient Roman capital punishment has become a reminder of the redeeming grace of the loving Almighty God.

Once a crude and cruel method of execution, the cross now adorns our churches, our homes, and even our necks. Crosses may be simple or quite ornate. If a cross depicts Jesus hanging on it, then it is called a crucifix. An empty cross is a reminder of Jesus' victory over sin and death.

EASTER LILIES

White lilies are the hallmark of Easter. These trumpet-shaped flowers announce the coming of spring and the resurrection of Christ, even as the angel announced his victory. Planted in the ground as dead-seeming bulbs, these flowers sprout through the soil and open towards the heavens, just as Christ blasted from the tomb and rose in triumph.

The white lily symbolizes purity as well. According to Christian legend, the angel Gabriel actually carried white lilies when he appeared to the Virgin Mary to announce that she would bear the Christ-child.

EGGS

The egg has long been seen as a symbol of new life. Christians exchange decorated eggs at Easter because the egg reminds us of Jesus' resurrection and the empty tomb. An egg seems like an inanimate (dead) item, until the shell is cracked open and a new life begins.

BUNNIES

Bunnies are among the most prolific creatures on earth. In the spring, these gentle creatures begin to appear, and they produce many young. The Easter bunny symbolizes the hope of rebirth.

LAMBS

Roasted lamb is a key ingredient of the Jewish Passover Seder meal, which Jesus shared with His disciples on the night on which He was betrayed. When God delivered the Jewish people from slavery in Egypt, He instructed the people to place the blood of a spotless lamb over the doorframes of their homes. This caused the angel of death to pass over those homes, when the firstborn of all of Egypt were killed in the last plague. Pharoah responded by letting the Jewish people go.

When John the Baptist saw Jesus, he said, "Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29). Christians see Jesus as the final perfect sacrifice for human sin, the long-promised Passover Lamb of God. Lambs are gentle, meek, and lovely . . . just like Jesus, the Good Shepherd.

HOT CROSS BUNS

Although these were traditionally a pagan treat, Christians have served these during the Easter season. A cross of icing is poured atop these rolls,

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