When a child begins to take his or her first steps, parents rush to film the significant moment. It is sure to be replayed many times over the years, likely to hearty laughs and happy memories. We can draw parallels between a child’s first steps and our own spiritual path. Like a child, we sometimes stumble and fall while trying to walk the path of a good and holy life. But Jesus does not want us to stay down. Thus, he lifts us up in his mercy and says the words he spoke to the paralytic: “Rise, and walk.” As we draw ever nearer to the glory of the Resurrection and the blessings of Easter, may we prepare ourselves to rise and walk in God’s love and mercy this day, and always.