Easter Weekend

It is kind of weird celebrating Easter in the middle of fall, and what a shock when we learned that Good Friday and Easter are recognized as public holidays in Australia.  We had a really great long weekend starting with Good Friday services on (obviously) Friday morning.  It was such a great time to reflect on the sacrifice God made for us.  So often I feel like we don't spend enough time truly remembering what those three days must have been like for all those surrounding Jesus.  

On Saturday morning we had a barbecue with our neighborhood we go to for street teams.  We had a great turn out.  We decorated eggs with the kids, made easter baskets and gave out lots of lollies.  When we came home we found that our housemate had made a huge Easter meal for most of the college houses in our neighborhood so we had 23 people over for lunch.  It was so yummy!!!

On Sunday, we played a special at the beginning of the Chinese Extension service.  It was a medley of Easter hymns/choruses.  Matt sang in English and they displayed the words translated into mandarin on the screen behind us.  In the afternoon, we needed rest to keep going.  During the evening services, we had a super powerful celebration service.  The church has started an art and film festival surrounding Easter themes, and they used the short films to emphasize the story of Jesus' death and resurrection.  If you get a chance you should check them out at www.myhillsong.com/artfestival .

We hope that you all had a great Easter! We are so lucky to have developed great friendships here so that we are not sooo lonely, but we miss you all dearly and are so grateful for your love and support. Happy Easter!!