The Easter holiday is just around the corner and this is my first go-round as a mom. For a while, I’ve been struggling with the idea of the Easter bunny. As a Christian, it’s hard to understand how a giant bunny has anything to do with Jesus’ resurrection. As a parent, I don’t want my son to miss out on childhood games. Although he’s barely one, I want to solidify my decision now when he’s little instead of confusing him when he’s older.

For those of you who do not know the bible story, Easter is the celebration of Jesus raising from the dead. Three days prior, he was put on trial, beaten and hung on a cross for doing miracles and proclaiming the truth that he is the son of God sent to be an atonement for all sinners. Jesus is the only way to heaven.

“Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6

This is what we believe in my household. And this is where my struggle begins. When I was a kid, my mom loved making Easter baskets for us. We’d wake up in the morning and see an awesome display of candy and toys. Although I looked forward to these gifts every year, I never associated Easter with Jesus. Sure, I went to church on Easter Sunday and watched the bible story on TV with my parents. But it wasn’t until I was in High School and Easter baskets were long gone did, I understand what Easter was.

For this reason, I want my son to associate Jesus with Easter from the start. I considered making a Jesus themed Easter basket, but my son is too small now to appreciate it. I’m completely open to Easter egg hunts and already have a plan to place scriptures from the bible story in each egg. He can enjoy a fun activity with his friends but still be able to make the connection of why Easter is so important.

Maybe as he gets older and starts asking questions, I’ll have a new tradition for Easter. I would love to sit down with him and read the Book of John every year. There are a ton of Easter books that tell the story of Jesus for kids that would also be perfect. I’m not sure if I’m one of the only people that really struggles with creating an Easter basket for a Christian household. If you’re that parent who came up with an awesome Easter plan that keeps Jesus at the fore front, I’d love to hear it!