Were You There?

 

“Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Crucify him! Crucify him!”

The last week of Jesus’ life is book-ended by those two cries of the people. When Jesus rode into Jerusalem it was to the “hosannas” of the people. But just a few days later they called for his death. What happened in between?

In between, leaders who are supposed to provide direction and care to the people, but who hate Jesus, incite the people against Jesus. They actively work to get others to betray, speak against and work for an end to the life of the Jewish teacher who has gained such a following. At least some of the people listen to them and turn from the one who has healed and taught them, and brought them hope. What an alarming and difficult turn of events.

Sunday, March 25, Palm and Passion Sunday, we enter the most holy week of the Christian year. Sometimes we think that is Christmas week, but truly our Christian faith takes hold in the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus. Without this week in Jesus’ life, the Christmas story means nothing. This is when we journey with Jesus from hosannas to the grave, and then realize that death, the great enemy, has no power because of Jesus’ resurrection, and the new life he brings to us. Will we listen to the voice of Jesus as we move through this week?

I invite you to enter into this Holy Week. On Sunday, March 25, our choirs will present a cantata, Love Divine at 8:15 and 9:45 a.m., with The Gathering worship at 11:15 a.m. as usual. With palms and songs we celebrate, and then move into Holy Week. This year, we will be blessed with a powerful drama, The Seder that Changed Everything on Holy Thursday, March 29, and a Service of Tenebrae – Were You There?– Good Friday, March 30. Both are at 7:00 p.m. In addition, multi-sensory Stations of the Cross will be set up and available all during the week.

We pray: Help us lay aside our wants, desires and projects and journey with you, Lord Jesus, into this most holy week. We put our hands and hearts into your care. Amen.

Blessings, Sharon