The other day, I felt like going to the park during my second period class, and so I did. It was one of the first sunny days we had in a while, and I just needed to be outside. Sometimes, I feel really cooped up at school and just need to get outside, so I play "hookie" which isn't always the best idea, but shhh don't tell my parents.

For those of you from KW area, you know that Victoria Park is just beautiful. When I got there, I just sat on the bench by myself, and watched the sun sparkle on the water, and the wind blow through the weeping willow trees. It was a perfect day, and I was glad I made the decision to spend some time by myself at the park, just talking to God.

I began to think about just how beautiful God's creation is. I was reminded of a video played at Silver Lake Youth Camp a few summers ago. Charlie's character was trying to explain how the big bang theory didn't make sense because it would mean that everything around us is an accident. With his video camera he then went around the camp (Silver Lake is really beautiful for those of you who have never been there), and zoomed up on all the things he found amazing about creation, and said "is this an accident?" to all of them. He zoomed up on a butterfly, on different people, on the sky, on flowers, and lots of things. It was really powerful and I never forgot it. As I sat there and remembered that God was gracious enough to give me all of this amazing creation, I realized just how cool of a Dad I have. What kind of Father can forgive you no matter what you do? What kind of Father can sacrifice His ONLY Son so that all the times I've messed up in my life (which is a lot), will be forgiven?

The gracious kind.

In my life, I've been to a lot of beautiful places. I've been to the Rockies, the Maritimes, Nicaragua, Mexico, Silver Lake Camp, Ryerson and I could go on. As I sat on the park bench the other day I realized that all of these places, don't hold a candle to just how beautiful and spectacular God's grace is.

One of the best parts about God's grace (I think) is that anyone can have it. It's not only for people who are popular, do a lot of good deeds, or are rich and famous. ANYONE can, and it's super easy. All you have to do is ask for forgiveness, and BAM! God's grace is yours. That's the beauty of it, that's why Jesus Christ came to save us.

So, this Easter season I encourage you to celebrate God's grace. Although part of Easter is spent in mourning for the sacrifice made for our sins, I've always found Easter to be a really joyous holiday, and it's actually my favorite. We have a designated day to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. I encourage you to celebrate Easter everyday, in everything you do. Don't ever be afraid to accept God's Grace.

--Meghan Witzel