“Turn my heart to your decrees, and not to selfish gain.”  Psalm 119:36

  “Jesus Christ humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death – even death on a cross.”  Philippians 2:8

Forty days pondering Lent … Some sacrificed French fries or chocolate; others gave away some material something each day.  The weeks led up to who will host brunch?  What can I bring?  What time will the flowers be delivered to church?!?  Lots of fretting over stubborn weather.   

Last Sunday we sang about pondering on Jesus’ passion, a Holy Week ending with death and burial.  Today is a somber, reflective day – no preparation other than meaningful worship.    Today is what we’re all about – humbly seeing what God is willing to do for us who deserve nothing from him, but he pours out love and grace.  Last night we remembered a final meal Jesus shared with his friends.  Before night evolved into morning, a gathering of friends evolved into chaos and evil, betrayal and desertion; confusion and fear; perhaps guilt.  

In sorrow women prepared oils to take to Jesus’ tomb ... unknowingly preparing for Easter, our day of salvation and celebration.  We know Sunday is coming.  We won’t spend tomorrow in fear and sadness.  Our Easter preparations will include making salads and arranging flowers at church.   Come Monday, what will remain with us of Good Friday and Easter?  Leftover ham and deviled eggs?  A plant?  At Christmas we prayed to keep the Christmas spirit of generosity alive in our hearts all year.  Now we ask the same … that our hearts are truly transformed and the Easter spirit of redemption through the grace of God stays alive in our hearts each day.

“When I survey the wondrous cross on which the Prince of glory died, my richest gain I count but loss, and pour contempt on all my pride. Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast save in the death of Christ, my God! All the vain things that charm me most, I sacrifice them through his blood.”  Amen    (Prayer text:  Isaac Watts)  

Verla Olson   

Ministries
Teaching Mission Party