On Easter Sunday Father Mark hid some small Easter eggs in the Easter Garden and then told all the children they were going to have an Easter egg hunt! Apparently he had hardly finished the sentence when a little three year old ran up the aisle and found them in the Easter Garden. He then said that sort of energy in running must have been like the disciples as they ran towards the tomb to see for themselves that it was empty. He then produced a larger egg that he had been hiding behind the altar and showed them that it was empty inside just like the tomb. And that was why we all have Easter eggs and to remember that as they enjoyed their eggs that day.

I liked that idea and have, as I say, developed it for a wedding homily. I am beginning by saying that I was trying to think of an image that would help us realise why today is important; what will continue after everything else has been cleared away; and what is at the centre of all that we do today. I am then going to hold up an Easter egg in a carrier bag. First off all I will say that presents are not at the centre of the day and then take the egg out of the bag. Then I am going to say that all the hard work and preparation that has gone into the day to make sure it all runs smoothly, all the packaging will be gone by tomorrow. Then I am going to take the egg out of the box and throw the wrapping away. Then I am going to talk about the shiny paper surrounding the egg which is like everyone gathered here today. All wonderful but won't be here all day every day so will then unwrap the egg. Then I am going to talk about the love that the couple have for one another and how that is very important but not at the centre. Then I am going to open the egg to show that it is empty inside.

At that point I am going to talk about Christ Risen from the dead, symbolised by the empty tomb and the empty egg, and how he is present amongst us and should be at the centre of everything that we do. From there I am going to talk about the wedding vows and promises which make the day a celebration of vocation: responding to God's call.

Perhaps there are situations in our lives that need the Easter egg approach at the moment so that we keep a good sense of perspective and priority rather than wasting time with all the wrapping and packaging. The more we remember that the Risen Christ is with us and place Him at the centre of the decisions in our life the more our lives become a vocation whoever we are whatever situation we may find ourselves in. So if you still have an egg left why not open it and remember that Christ is with you!